SyrupCast is a weekly show that puts a spotlight on the Canadian tech industry. Each week we focus on the tech stories that matter to Canadians, including smartphones, video games, apps, and telecom news. Join us as we dive through this always-interesting and ever-expanding industry!
Unpacking all the news from WWDC 2024
What a week! This has been a WWDC for the books with the announcement of Apple's foray into the AI space. That said, there's also a ton of other news to cover for every operating system under the Apple umbrella, so I had to call in some help this week. Joining me are special guests Drew Kozub from Canada's Breakfast Television and KissFM radio. Alongside him is TikTok star Brett Turner, who most of you likely know as Brett.Tech on social media. You can find Drew on Twitter here - https://x.com/DrewKozubAnd make sure to check out Brett's accounts here - https://www.tiktok.com/@brett.tech Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/15/2024 • 1 hour, 7 seconds
Talking to Black creatives [Special Episode]
This is a special edition episode of the SyrupCast and the SyrupArcade Cast, where Dean Daley and Brad Shankar speak to Black industry professionals about their experiences in the technology industry, including Fūnk-é Joseph (Focus Entertainment), Enobong Etteh (Boredatwork.com), and Kadeem Dunn (Google) (Diaspora Games). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/26/2024 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 51 seconds
Checking out MWC '24 and the new MacBook Air M3
On the latest episode of the SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett, and Dean Daley discuss Mobile World Congress 2024 and everything that Dean saw at this year's event. This includes checking out the TCL Ray Neo X2, the Galaxy Ring, a lot of weird robotic AI contraptions and the highlight of the show for him, the Humane AI Pin. Afterward, the three talked about the recently announced MacBook Air M3 and Bennett's experience with the new laptop. Patrick O'Rouke also tries a new segment by asking Brad and Dean a skill-testing tech-related question. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/8/2024 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 10 seconds
Unpacking Samsung's Galaxy S24 series
On the latest episode of the SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett, Dean Daley and Chris Brown discuss Samsung's new Galaxy S24 series. Both Dean and Chris outline what the vibes were like at this year's Unpacked, break down their first impressions of the Galaxy S24 Ultra (including an at-even recording of an unboxing) and discuss Samsung's new Galaxy AI features.Are new AI features like 'Circle to Search' just a fancy gimmick gimmick? or is this functionality Galaxy S24 users will actually find useful? Listen to our latest episode to find out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/26/2024 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 22 seconds
Fantasy Football: 2024 Video Game Edition [SyrupArcade Cast 12]
Similar to last year, the MobileSyrup team is having a video game fantasy draft. We assembled the regular SyrupArcade Cast hosts, Dean Daley, Brad Shankar, Chris Brown and MobileSyrup freelancer and writer for The Gamer, Gabrielle Huston. From there, each person selects three games they believe will be the top-scoring of the year. The quartet will also do a follow-up podcast in the middle of the year after more titles are announced at 'Summer Game Fest' and other video game showcases, to add two more picks for a total of five each. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/12/2024 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 34 seconds
Game Awards roundup and gaming fantasy draft results [SyrupArcade Cast 11]
The Game Awards 2023 have taken place, so the Syrup ArcadeCast crew, including, Dean DaleyBrad Shankar, and Chris Brown, alongside special guest, Steve Vegvari, breakdown this year's event. The podcast team talks about the awards winners, including Baldur's Gate 3, Alan Wake 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and more. They also discuss the controversy surrounding the awards ceremony and the developers who should have had far more time to speak. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/14/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 13 seconds
What should win at The Game Awards 2023? [SyrupArcade Cast 10]
Ahead of The Game Awards, co-hosts Dean Daley and Brad Shankar are joined once again by Blue Ant Plus’ Chris Brown to discuss our thoughts on the nominees. Of course, a lot of this episode is dedicated to the six Game of the Year nominees: Baldur’s Gate 3, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Resident Evil 4 and Alan Wake 2. But we also look at several other big categories, including Best Narrative, Best RPG, Best Performance and, perhaps most controversial this year, Best Indie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/27/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 33 seconds
These are our favourite smartphones of 2023
On this episode of the Syrupcast, the pod squad discusses their favourite smartphones of 2023 in our annual year-end episode.The team also tries out several new segments, including the return of a news recap, 'Tech Treat or Tech Trash' and more, as the pod squad prepares to revamp the SyrupCast in the new year. Along with episodes still hosted by Patrick O'Rourke, Dean will also take on hosting duties for several special interview episodes (you'll likely recognize several upcoming guests). You'll also see a more unified format across the SyrupCast and the SyrupArcade Cast. Bear with us as we figure out a new format for MobileSyrup's podcasts in the coming weeks and months! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/17/2023 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 35 seconds
2023 video game catch-up -- Starfield, Baldur's Gate 3 and more [SyrupArcade Cast 9]
On the latest episode of the SyrupArcade Cast, co-hosts Dean Daley and Brad Shankar are joined by Blue Ant Plus’ Chris Brown to share our thoughts on Starfield, Baldur's Gate 3 and Marvel's Spider-Man 2. Expect some controversial takes on Starfield before we all gush about Baldur's Gate 3 and Spidey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/27/2023 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 38 seconds
The Pixel 8 episode
This week's SyrupCast episode is all about Google's Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/12/2023 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 42 seconds
Our experiences at the fall iPhone 15 and Apple Watch reveal event
At this year's fall hardware event, the SyrupCast team had the opportunity to record its annual iPhone event recap video in a fancy studio at Apple Park. This week's episode features Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Alain McKenna, a Montreal-based technology journalist who has covered the industry for decades and currently writes for LeDevoir. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/15/2023 • 32 minutes, 3 seconds
Fantasy Football: 2023 Video Game Edition (Part 2) [SyrupArcade Cast 9]
Back in January, MobileSyrup created a 'Fantasy Football' league-like draft for 2023 video game releases. Dean Daley, Brad Shankar, Chris Brown and Steve Vegvari contributed to the list of fantasy selections. Here's how it worked: in January, we were given the chance to select three games we felt would be among the year's top-scoring on OpenCritic. This time, we selected two more games for a total of five titles for each participant. Points will then be awarded or deducted for every percentage point each pick falls above or below a 70 on OpenCritic. By the end of the year, we'll only look at the top four games, ditching the least impressive score for each person's collection of titles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/8/2023 • 56 minutes, 8 seconds
Summer Game Fest and the Xbox Games Showcase [SyrupArcade Cast 8]
Last week was Summer Game Fest, which included its own showcase alongside presentations from Xbox and Bethesda, Ubisoft, Digital Devolver, Capcom and more throughout the week. In this week's episode, Brad and Dean Daley are joined by Blue Ant Plus' Chris Brown to discuss the events in depth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2023 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 47 seconds
Apple's Vision Pro sets a new standard for VR/AR headsets
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett chat about Apple's WWDC 2023, including upcoming software updates like iOS 17/iPadOS 17, watchOS 10 and more. Next, the team delves into 15-inch MacBook Pro, the M2 Max/M2 Ultra Mac Studio and finally, the Apple Vision Pro.The pod squad unpacks what it was like to attend WWDC, why they think this year's event was so packed and what Apple's end-game might be regarding augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR). If you've ever wanted a peak behind the Apple event curtain, this is the SyrupCast episode for you 🍎. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/13/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 48 seconds
Let's talk about Sony's PlayStation Showcase and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom [SyrupArcade Cast 7]
We haven't recorded a SyrupArcade Cast in over a month, but with so much happening in the video game world right now, we figured it's best to talk about everything all at once. In April, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor launched, followed by Redfall and Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. To close May off, PlayStation also held its first Showcase in over 600 days. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/29/2023 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 14 seconds
Google I/O 2023: Early Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold impressions
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett, Dean Daley and Jon Lamont chat about the Pixel 7a, the Pixel Tablet and the Pixel Fold after going hands-on with several of the devices ahead of Google I/O 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/11/2023 • 38 minutes, 9 seconds
Rogers' $26 billion Shaw takeover, Nothing's Ear (2) and MobileSyrup's mysterious video project
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont chat about Rogers' $26 billion takeover of Shaw (we'll record a dedicated SyrupCast telecom episode soon), Nothing's new Ear (2) wireless earbuds and the secret video project Brad Bennett's been working on for the last few months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/6/2023 • 55 minutes, 30 seconds
Let's talk about women in video games [SyrupArcade Cast 6]
March is Women's History Month, which focuses on women's contributions to history. On this week's SyrupArcade Cast, the team chats about women/femme characters in video games, the women behind games, and the recent Game Developers Conference (GDC). Brad Shankar and Dean Daley are joined by Rose Behar, MobileSyrup's former telecom reporter who currently works as a narrative designer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/31/2023 • 50 minutes, 15 seconds
PS5 Pro and Switch 2 rumours [SyrupArcade Cast 5]
With rumours surrounding new video game consoles circulating, the SyrupArcade Cast team unpacks all of the latest leaks. In the latest episode of the SyrupArcade Cast, Brad Shankar, Dean Daley and Chris Brown discuss rumours that a PS5 Pro is on the way, a potential Nintendo Switch successor, and talk about the games they've recently played, including Hogwarts Legacy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/22/2023 • 52 minutes, 35 seconds
Taking a look at small-town Ontario-inspired Rollergirl [SyrupArcade Cast 4]
On this episode of the SyrupArcade Cast, Brad Shankar and Dean Daley speak to Indigo Doyle, game designer and the creative lead at Toronto-based Pushing Vertices on Rollergirl. Rollergirl is based on the life of Doyle, a Black woman who grew up in Belleville, Ontario. In the game, you roll around town on rollerblades exploring the neighbourhood as Naomi, a Black 17-year-old doing odd jobs to afford to fix her first car.During the podcast, we ask Doyle about her journey as a game developer and discus representation and diversity. Given it's Black History Month, we felt it was important to highlight the difficulties Black people face when breaking into the gaming industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/24/2023 • 20 minutes, 31 seconds
Should you buy Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra?
On this week's SyrupCastPatrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Dean Daley chat about Samsung's new Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra, and the smartphones' recent launch event in San Francisco. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/10/2023 • 53 minutes, 58 seconds
MobileSyrup’s 2023 video game fantasy draft [SyrupArcade Cast 3]
On this week's SyrupArcade Cast, Brad Shankar, Dean Daley, and special guests Steve Vegvari and Chris Brown, host a fantasy video game draft where we pick the games we believe will be the highest-rated in 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/13/2023 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 17 seconds
Let's talk about the The Game Awards 2022 [SyrupArcade Cast 2]
In episode two of the SyrupArcade Cast, we talk about everything The Game Awards-related, including some of the weird nominations, the games we didn't want to win and the coolest trailers we saw at the event. This week's episode features Brad Shankar, Dean Daley and Chris Brown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/15/2022 • 1 hour, 8 seconds
The joy of Black Friday and Elon Musk burning Twitter down
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont talk about this year's carrier and retailer Black Friday deals are worthwhile, before delving into the current state of Twitter under Elon Musk's regime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2022 • 1 hour, 12 minutes
God of War: Ragnarok might be the GOAT [SyrupArcade Cast]
God of War: Ragnarok is finally available. While Brad Shankar dropped his opinion on the game last week and interviewed several developers behind the title, the team still had more to say about the anticipated PS4 and PS5 gaming epic.This is where Dean Daley's and Brad Shankar's new SyrupArcade episodes of the SyrupCast come in. These special SyrupArcade Cast episodes are still the SyrupCast you know and love, but with an emphasis on all things gaming. All episodes will be available in the standard SyrupCast podcast feed on nearly every podcast platform out there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/9/2022 • 45 minutes, 34 seconds
The Pixel 7 and Pixel Watch review pod
On this week's SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke chats with Jon Lamont and Dean Daley about MobileSyrup's Pixel 7, Pixel Watch and Pixel 7 Pro reviews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/21/2022 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Pixel 7, Pixel Watch and Google hardware event rumour round-up
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont outline all of the rumours surrounding Google's upcoming hardware event, including the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel Watch and the mysterious tablet the tech giant teased at I/O a few months ago. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/30/2022 • 55 minutes, 30 seconds
5G's future in Canada
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont take a look at the future of 3,500Mhz 5G in Canada and what the technology means for Canadians. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/19/2022 • 35 minutes, 51 seconds
Should you buy Apple's iPhone 14? ft. Shevon Salmon
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett Dean Daley and special guest and tech YouTuber Shevon Salmon, discuss Apple's big 'Far Out' keynote and also delve into MobileSyrup's reviews/hands-ons of all the devices the tech giant showed off, including the iPhone 14, the iPhone 14 Pro/Max, the Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch Ultra and the AirPods (2nd-Gen). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/16/2022 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 53 seconds
iPhone 14, Apple Watch Pro and AirPods Pro 2 rumour round-up
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett break down everything they expect to see revealed at Apple's upcoming 'Far Out' event, including the iPhone 14, Apple Watch Pro, 2nd-gen AirPods Pro and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/1/2022 • 50 minutes, 9 seconds
The state of 5G in Canada
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont explain what 5G actually is. Along with discussing 5G, the pod squad also delves into the current state of the technology in Canada and how the country's implementation of the next-gen wireless tech compares to other areas of the world.This episode is part of a sponsored two-episode series focused on 5G (the next episode drops later in September).This article is part of our The Future with 5G Series. A full-length documentary on 5G airs on BBC Earth Canada and MobileSyrup on August 26th. For more 5G content, check out our new hub focused on the next-generation technology. This podcast is sponsored by Bell. MobileSyrup publishes sponsored content. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/28/2022 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
Apple's new M2 MacBook Air, iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and more
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett offer their early reactions to Apple's WWDC 2022 keynote, including the new m2 MacBook Air, iOS 16, iPadOS 16, CarPlay and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/9/2022 • 37 minutes
Getting ready for WWDC 2022
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett outline everything they expect to see at WWDC 2022 next week, including Apple's often-rumoured AR headset, a new MacBook Air and possibly even a few surprises. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/2/2022 • 48 minutes, 22 seconds
Google I/O: Pixel 7/6a, Pixel Watch, Pixel Buds Pro and more
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Dean Daley talk about I/O 2022, including the Pixel Watch, the Pixel 6a, the Pixel 7, the Pixel Buds Pro, the Pixel Tablet and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/13/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 11 seconds
OnePlus 10 Pro, New York Auto Show and BMW iX
On this week’s SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett talk about the OnePlus 10 Pro and its software woes, Brad's recent trip to the New York Auto Show, the pricey, but impressive BMW iX, and lastly, Nothing's Ear (1) wireless earbuds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/29/2022 • 56 minutes, 51 seconds
Looking back at some of our favourite phones and smartphones
On this week's SyrupCast, the team unpacks what their favourite feature phone and smartphones ever are. This week's pod squad, including Patrick O’Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont, all bring unique devices to the table, including long-forgotten feature phones like the Sony Ericsson W810, the LG Rumor 2, the Samsung Vice and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/8/2022 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 17 seconds
What iPad is right for you?
On this week's SyrupCast, the team takes a look at Apple's iPad and breaks down how each tablet fits into the tech giant's lineup. This week's pod squad -- Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett -- also outline their favourite iPads, what they use the iPad for and discuss whether macOS is ever coming to Apple's tablet line (spoilers: it isn't). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/25/2022 • 40 minutes, 43 seconds
Apple's March event: Mac Studio, M1 Ultra, iPhone SE and more
On this week's SyrupCast the team dives into Apple's March event, including the Mac Studio, Studio Display, M1 Ultra chip, iPhone SE and iPad Air. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/11/2022 • 59 minutes, 5 seconds
Is the Steam Deck here to stay?
On this week's SyrupCast, the team ditches the usual two-week release cadence to drop an emergency episode focused on Valve's new Steam Deck.Patrick O'Rourke spends roughly an hour telling Brad Bennett about his experience with the Steam Deck so far -- and yes, we now know that Proton is just the Linux translation layer and not the handheld's OS. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/4/2022 • 58 minutes, 39 seconds
What to expect from Apple's March event
On this week's SyrupCast, Patrick O’Rourke and Brad Bennett take a look at Chrome OS coming to Mac and PC and then unpack all of the major rumours surrounding Apple's upcoming March event, including the iPhone SE (2022), iPad Air and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/25/2022 • 58 minutes, 43 seconds
Is Samsung's Galaxy S22 series a worthwhile upgrade?
Just hours after the end of Samsung's latest 'Unpacked' event and with the Galaxy S22 Ultra in hand, Dean Daley offers his initial impressions of the smartphone to Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett.The pod squad then shifts the conversation to discussing the Galaxy S22/Galaxy S22+ and breaks down whether this year's lower-end S series smartphones are a notable upgrade over their predecessors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/11/2022 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 9 seconds
Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE
This week on the SyrupCast, the crew talks about Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE. To start the pod, Dean Daley explains to Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett why Arceus is such a refreshing take on the Pokémon series. Next, the conversation shifts to Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE, a fan edition version of the S21 series that arrived on the eve of the S22 line's release. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/28/2022 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 8 seconds
CES 2022, Halo Infinite and another year of tech
This week on the SyrupCast, the crew returns after an extended hiatus to talk about how low-key CES 2022 was.To kick off the pod, Brad Bennett regales Patrick O'Rourke and Jon Lamont with news regarding Rogers' new CEO, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and the latest software update for the OnePlus Buds Pro. Next, Patrick steers the team towards recapping CES 2022. While this year's show was pretty dull, cool gadgets and several electric vehicle (EV) concept cars were still shown off. Finally, the team talks about some of the games they've been playing over the holidays, with Patrick shining a light on Halo Infinite and Brad talking about finally catching up on The Last of us 2. If you've been a long-time SyrupCast listener, you already know that Jon spent time with Destiny 2, but he also started playing Stardew Valley again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/14/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes
The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro review episode
On this week’s SyrupCast, Brad Bennett and Patrick O’Rourke grill Jon Lamont and Dean Daley about their respective Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro reviews. The pod squad talks about how the smartphones fit into the Canadian market, their significant refreshed designs and why Jon prefers the Pixel 6 and Dean is all about the Pixel 6 Pro. If you're interested in an hour-long conversation about the Pixel 6 series (and honestly, who isn't, right?), this is the SyrupCast episode for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/12/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 59 seconds
Google's Pixel 6 and Apple's MacBook Pro refresh
On this week's jam-packed SyrupCast, Brad Bennett, Jon Lamont and Patrick O’Rourke talk about Google's big Pixel 6 series reveal, Apple's new MacBook Pro and finally, the new 3rd-gen AirPods. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/22/2021 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 25 seconds
iPhone 13/iPad mini reviews and Microsoft's big Surface event
On this week's SyrupCast, Brad Bennett, Jon Lamont and Patrick O’Rourke, once again, talk about Apple's iPhone 13 and the iPad mini now that both Patrick and Brad have spent time with the respective devices. Along with the Apple talk, the team also breaks down Microsoft's Surface event, with Jon offering his thoughts on the Surface Duo 2, Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Pro 8 and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/30/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 6 seconds
Should you buy Apple's iPhone 13?
On this week's SyrupCast, Brad Bennett, Jon Lamont and Patrick O’Rourke talk about Apple's big iPhone 13 event. This includes a discussion surrounding the fact that the iPhone 13 series is very similar to the iPhone 12 line, the reveal of the stellar-looking iPad mini, the Apple Watch Series 7 and the far more boring entry-level iPad. The team also talks about how wrong some rumours leading up to the event were, particularly surrounding the Series 7. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/17/2021 • 1 hour, 15 seconds
Looking back at tech that's grown on us over time
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett sit down with Jon Lamont to go over some of the devices they've reviewed over the past year and how prolonged time with those items has shifted their opinions, including the Xbox Series X, the iPhone 12 mini, the Pixel 4a/4a 5G, the Fitbit Sense and the Sonos Move. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/27/2021 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 28 seconds
Hands-on with Samsung's Z Fold 3/Z flip 3, and Google's Pixel 6 reveal
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett and Dean Daley discuss the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Flip 3 and the Galaxy Watch 4 and the Galaxy Buds 2. As an added treat, Dean's Flip 3 review device was delivered to him mid-podcast. Next, Brad and Dean catch Patrick up on all the Pixel 6's and Pixel 6 Pro's new features, and he refuses to call the new robocop-like camera bump, a camera block. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/13/2021 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 45 seconds
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 rumours
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett and joined by Dean Daley, smartphone leak reporter extraordinaire, to talk about Samsung's upcoming August unpacked event. Along with detailing rumours surrounding Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3, Dean also outlines the speculation surrounding the Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and the rumours Galaxy Buds 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/30/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 21 seconds
Nintendo's new Switch OLED model and wireless earbuds roundup
It's been a busy week at MobileSyrup, so Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett podcast as a duo on this episode and talk about the new OLED Nintendo Switch and all of the wireless earbuds Brad has been reviewing lately, including the excellent Beats Studio Buds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/16/2021 • 56 minutes, 33 seconds
The big Windows 11 show
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by MobileSyrup's resident Windows expert Jon Lamont to talk about Windows 11's big reveal, including the top new features, the controversy surrounding TPM and of course, why Windows 9 doesn't exist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/2/2021 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 44 seconds
E3 2021, Summer Game Fest and more
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett and joined by MobileSyrup's gaming reporter Brad Shankar and smartphone leak reporter extraordinaire Dean Daley to break down all the recent gaming announcements. This includes E3, Summer Games Fest, the Microsoft/Bethesda show and even the recent Nintendo Direct. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/18/2021 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast 239: Unpacking WWDC 2021 -- iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8 and more
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup's Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett sit down with Jon Lamont to talk about all the new operating system updates Apple revealed at WWDC 2021, including iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS Monterey, watchOS 8 and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/11/2021 • 41 minutes, 53 seconds
SyrupCast 238: Unpacking Google I/O, plus iMac, iPad and Apple TV 4K reviews
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, "bad boi" Brad Bennett and Android specialist Dean Daley, unpack everything from Google I/O 2021's keynote. To start the show Brad and Dean shoot rapid-fire questions at Patrick regarding all the Apple products that he reviewed this week, including the 2021 iMac, iPad Pro and Apple TV. The trio then unpacks some of our favourites announcements from Google I/O, including new camera tech and the really funky android 12 visual refresh. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/21/2021 • 59 minutes, 31 seconds
SyrupCast 237: Hands-on with Apple's AirTag and Samsung's Galaxy Book Pro
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett and Jon Lamont sit down to discuss early impressions of Apple's AirTag and Samsung's Galaxy Book Pro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/7/2021 • 52 minutes, 58 seconds
SyrupCast 236: New iMac, iPad Pro, AirTag and purple iPhone 12
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by MobileSyrup's Jon Lamont to break down Apple's recent 'Spring Loaded' fall hardware event, including the purple iPhone 12, the new Apple TV 4K, the AirTag, the colourful new iMac and the M1-equipped iPad Pro. And yes, we now know that the purple iPhone is not called 'Gorgeous Purple.' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/23/2021 • 1 hour, 5 seconds
SyrupCast 235: The death of LG's mobile division and Apple's rumoured April event
On the SyrupCast this week, Brad Bennett and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by Dean Daley to talk about the death of LG's mobile division and Apple's rumoured April event. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/9/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 42 seconds
SyrupCast 234: Rogers buying Shaw, and the OnePlus 9 series
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett sit down with MobileSyrup's business reporter Aisha Malik to outline the Rogers/Shaw deal that's currently looming over the Canadian telecom industry. After all of that, Brad shares his thoughts on the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro, including how the new smartphones fit into the Canadian market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/26/2021 • 51 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast 233: Sonos Roam and Koodo's 'thoughtful review'
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Jon Lamont to talk about the new Sonos Roam and a significant plan shakeup at Koodo related to "thoughtful review." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/12/2021 • 46 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast 232: Microsoft's Surface Duo and carrier win-back season
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Jon Lamont to talk about Microsoft's dual-screen Surface Duo smartphone, and a few of the wilder phone plans we've seen appear over the last few weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/26/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 20 seconds
SyrupCast 231: Samsung Galaxy S21, Lenovo X1 Fold and Apple Fitness+
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Jon Lamont to discuss several of the stories they've been working on lately. The crew talks about MobileSyrup's Samsung Samsung Galaxy S21 series reviews, Lenovo's wacky X1 Fold laptop and Apple Fitness+. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/5/2021 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 19 seconds
SyrupCast 230: Navdeep Bains steps down, the 'Netflix Tax' and Starlink's Canadian beta
This week on the SyrupCast, we changed things up a bit as our telecom and business reporter, Aisha Malik, joins SyrupCast co-host Brad Bennett to discuss the latest Canadian telecom trends. The podcast opens with a brief discussion surrounding Aisha's role at MobileSyrup, and then the duo chats about what Navdeep Bains stepping down as the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry means for the Canadian telecom industry. After that, Brad and Aisha talk about the "Netflix Tax" slated to go into effect later this summer and the launch of Starlink's beta program in Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/22/2021 • 40 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast 229: CES 2021 and the Samsung Galaxy S21
This week the SyrupCast is bursting at the seams with a four-person cast of Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett, Jon Lamont and Dean Daley. The first half of this week's episode focuses on our favourite gadgets and announcements from CES. The team then pivots to discuss all the news from Samsung's recent Unpacked event, including the Galaxy S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/15/2021 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast 228: M1 Macs and the Porsche Taycan
This week on the Syrupcast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Jon Lamont to talk about Apple's new M1 Mac lineup. Before jumping into the MacBook news, Brad briefly goes over his initial impressions of driving around the all-electric Porsche Taycan. Once the team gets into the M1 MacBook Air, 13-inch MacBook Pro and Mac mini, Jon brings an interesting angle to the discussion since he's spent a significant amount of time with the ARM-based Surface Pro X. Patrick is also starting to come around to the M1 Mac lineup despite being critical about them in a recent story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/3/2020 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 39 seconds
SyrupCast 227: Xbox Series X vs PlayStation 5
On this week's packed SyrupCast episode, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Dean Daley and Brad Shankar to discuss the Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5. Now that both consoles are available, the podcast team talks about each system's strengths and weaknesses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/20/2020 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 13 seconds
SyrupCast 226: Apple's iPhone 12 series and the iPad Air (2020)
This week on the podcast, Brad Bennett takes over hosting duties and talks to Patrick O'Rourke and Jon Lamont about all things iPhone 12 now that MobileSyrup's iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro reviews have gone live. Following that, Patrick briefly gives his thoughts on the new iPad Air and how it slots strangely into the company's existing iPad lineup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/23/2020 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 36 seconds
Syrupcast 225: Google event breakdown, Pixel 5, Chromecast and more
This week the podcast trio, including Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett and Dean Daley, breakdown Google's 'Launch Night In' fall hardware event. The squad delves into the new upcoming Pixel releases, including the Pixel 4a 5G and the Pixel 5. While the Pixel series has always been well-regarded for the most part, Google's confusing naming scheme and release plan this year take some time to unpack. The conversation then shifts to the Nest Audio and its intriguing design and Google's new Chromecast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/2/2020 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 21 seconds
SyrupCast 224: Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5 and Microsoft buying ZeniMax
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett and Brad Shankar talk about the pricing, design and general direction of Microsoft's Xbox Series X and S and Sony's PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. The team also discusses Microsoft's purchase of Bethesda parent company ZeniMax and Xbox game streaming possibly coming to iOS. Total runtime: 01:05 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/25/2020 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 34 seconds
SyrupCast 223: Apple Watch Series 6, SE and new iPads
This week on the SyrupCast Patrick, Brad, and Jon breakdown all of the news from Apple's September hardware event. The Series 6 is Apple's top-of-the-line smartwatch and includes blood oxygen level detection as well as the same always-on display as the Series 5. On the other hand, the Apple Watch SE is more of an entry-level mash-up of the Series 4 and Series 5. The iPad lineup also got a little more confusing thanks to the new iPad Air that's more powerful than even Apple's most recent iPad Pro. It also uses a colourful version of the iPad Pro's design, further separating the Air from the base-level iPads and doubling down on Apple's commitment to this middle of the road tablet. Beyond that, there's a new iPad (2020), which replaces the current base-model version. Total runtime: 01:08 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/18/2020 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast 222: Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 2, smartwatch showdown
SyrupCast regulars Brad Bennett, Patrick O'Rourke and Dean Daley jump on the pod this week to talk about the latest foldable Samsung device, the Galaxy Z Fold 2. While the smartphone is a major improvement over the first Z Fold, the crew, minus Dean, are still not sold on the extremely expensive foldable handset. After the team finishes discussing the Z Fold 2, they move on to talk about smartwatches. Total runtime: 01:14 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/4/2020 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast 221: Pixel 4a, Samsung Note 20 series, Galaxy Buds Live and more
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Jon Lamont to talk about his review of Google's mid-range Pixel 4a. Following a discussion focused on Google's latest smartphone, the trio breaks down all the news from Samsung's recent Unpacked event, including the new Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra, the new Galaxy Tab S7/S7+ and the impressive Galaxy Buds Live earbuds. Total runtime: 01:15 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/14/2020 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast 220: WWDC 2020 - iOS 14, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7 and macOS Big Sur
On this week's episode, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Shankar and Jon Lamont break down all the news from Apple's latest World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC), including iOS 14, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7 and macOS Big Sur. Total runtime: 01:13 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/26/2020 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast 219: The Last of Us Part II
This week on the podcast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett bring Brad Shankar on the show to talk about The Last of Part II (TLOU2). TLOU2 is the sequel to the wildly popular and critically-acclaimed The Last of Us that initially released on the PlayStation 3 way back in 2013. While the series takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, it focuses on smaller human stories. This is a spoiler-filled podcast that skips our usual segments, so if you haven't played the game yet, save this episode for later because it touches on all of the new game's major story beats. Total runtime: 01:13 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/19/2020 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 40 seconds
SyrupCast 218: Mac vs PC showdown
This week SyrupCast regulars Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by Microsoft maestro Jon Lamont for a classic Mac vs PC showdown. Jon, of course, is in the PC corner representing Microsoft's new Surface lineup, while keeping the entire third-party Windows manufacturer ecosystem in his back pocket. Patrick faces off from across the ring using the new 13-inch Macbook Pro and MacBook Air as a tennis racket to deflect Jon's various arguments. Total runtime: 1:12:12 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2020 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 18 seconds
SyrupCast 217: Home office setups and cameras
There hasn't been much big tech new news this week, so Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett chat about how they've been slowly upgrading their home offices and a camera feature Brad is starting to work on. Total runtime: 50:47 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/1/2020 • 50 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast 216: iPhone SE, OnePlus 8 series and the P40 Pro
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett sit down with Dean Daley to talk about the iPhone SE (2020), the OnePlus 8 series and the P40 Pro. Each of them has spent time with one of the new phones. Patrick talks about Apple's recently revealed iPhone SE, while Brad and Dean reviewed the OnePlus 8 series and P40 Pro, respectively. Total runtime: 53:00 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/17/2020 • 32 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast 215: New iPad Pro, MacBook Air and Animal Crossing
This week Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are back after a brief break to talk about Apple's surprise March announcements, including the iPad Pro (2020) and MacBook Air (2020). The pod starts off with a rundown off how MobileSyrup, Patrick and Brad have been handling work from home and social isolation, before quickly jumping into some of the hottest tech news on MobileSyrup. Total runtime: 53:23 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/2/2020 • 53 minutes, 22 seconds
SyrupCast 214: The Samsung Galaxy S20 series pod
This week Patrick O'Rourke and Brad Bennett are joined by MobileSyrup staff writers Jon Lamont and Dean Daley. The Syrup Squad discusses the Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra just prior to publishing their reviews of the S series flagships. Jon is reviewing the Galaxy S20, so he'll be defending the smallest of the three phones. Dean is working on the Galaxy S20+ review, and Pat has his hands on the Galaxy S20 Ultra. Opinions come out as the reviewers talk about the phone they like the most and what features they think Samsung nailed this time around. Note: When this podcast was recorded, Rogers hadn't yet made the announcement that its initial 5G network is now active. Total runtime: 55:16 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/6/2020 • 55 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast 213: Galaxy Z Flip impressions and CRTC hearing explanations
Parick O'Rourke spent time over the past week with Samsung's new Galaxy Z Flip, so Brad Bennett grills him about the smartphone's display, hinge and everything he liked about the new device. The pair also talks about Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S20 series. Before that, the team has MobileSyrup telecom reporter Aisha Malik on the podcast to talk about the CRTC's MVNO price reduction hearings. Note: When this podcast was recording, Rogers hadn't yet made the announcement that its initial 5G network is now active. Total runtime: 52:21 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/21/2020 • 52 minutes, 21 seconds
SyrupCast 212: Samsung Galaxy S20 rumours and the (possible) death of Blackberry phones
This week the SyrupCast crew is taking a look at smartphones from the past and the future. Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Bennett and special guest Ian Hardy, talk about the legacy of Blackberry devices and what it means that the brand has cut its ties with Chinese phone manufacturer TCL. Following that Dean Daley takes the third seat at the table to lay out our expectations for Samsung's Unpacked event on February 11th. The team discusses all three of the rumoured flagships -- the Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+ and Galaxy S20 Ultra -- a new rumour regarding Galaxy buds and the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Flip. Total runtime: 55:47 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/7/2020 • 55 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast 211: Microsoft Surface lineup, alternative computing and xCloud
This week MobileSyrup's Patrick O'Rourke and Bradley Bennet are still tweaking the refreshed show's new formula. Jon Lamont comes on the show to talk about his recent experience with Microsoft's new Surface device, followed by a discussion surrounding 'alternative computing.' In the final segment, Brad Shankar discusses his hands-on time with Microsoft's game streaming platform, xCloud. Total runtime: 60:00 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/31/2020 • 1 hour, 16 seconds
SyrupCast 210: CES 2020 and Samsung Galaxy S20 leaks
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup's Patrick O'Rourke, Bradley Bennett and Dean Daley breakdown the barrage of Samsung Galaxy S20 leaks this week and also chat about Brad's experience at CES 2020 in Las Vegas. Total runtime: 49:32 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/17/2020 • 49 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast 209: Our favourite phones of 2019
This week MobileSyurp's Patrick O'Rourke, Bradley Bennet, Dean Daley and Jon Lamont sit down and talk about their favourite phones of 2019 and a few honourable mentions. Total runtime: 44:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/23/2019 • 44 minutes, 30 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 208: 16-inch MacBook Pro, Mustang Mach-E and Google Stadia vs Project xCloud
This week, MobileSyrup managing editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/26/2019 • 52 minutes, 31 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 207: The Google Pixel 4 pod
This week, MobileSyrup Managing Editor Dean Daley and Jon Lamont, to talk about the Google Pixel 4 and Google's corresponding launch event. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. Total runtime: 36:34 Shoutouts: 32:55 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, MobileSyrup senior telecom reporter Shruti Shekar is joined by Anja Karadeglija, the editor of The Wire Report, to discuss the upcoming Canadian federal It's no secret that Canada has a few issues that need resolving in the telecom space, including problems like rural connectivity, high cellphone bills and of course, what to do about Huawei in the race for 5G. Total runtime: 40:03 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/18/2019 • 40 minutes, 3 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 205: OnePlus 7T, Amazon’s new hardware and Surface foldables
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke and staff writers Bradley Bennett and Dean Daley, talk about the OnePlus 7T, the new Echo devices coming to Canada and all the announcements from Microsoft's recent keynote event. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. Total runtime: 48:00 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/4/2019 • 48 minutes
SyrupCast: Google talks Stadia's game library, competition and more
On this interview episode of the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff writer Brad Shankar speaks with Ray Bautista, Google Stadia's business development manager, regarding where the upcoming game streaming service stands at the moment and what users can expect from it at launch. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected] Total runtime: 15:52 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/1/2019 • 15 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 204: iPhone 11 series and everything else Apple
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke and staff writers Bradley Bennett and Jon Lamont break down all the latest Apple-related news. Last week at Apple's annual Fall keynote, the tech giant revealed all of the hardware it's launching this fall. Patrick was at the event and went hands-on with the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max, as well as the Apple Watch Series 5. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected] Total runtime: 47:12 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/19/2019 • 47 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 203: Android 10, Sonos Move and Apple iPhone Pro event speculation
This week, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke takes over hosting duties alongside staff writers Bradley Bennett and Jon Lamont. The team sits down to discuss Sonos' new portable Move speaker, the best Android 10 features and Apple's upcoming fall hardware event. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected] Total runtime: 59:07 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/6/2019 • 59 minutes, 7 seconds
Syrupcast Podcast Ep. 202: R.I.P. 12-inch MacBook
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/12/2019 • 30 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 201: Everything you need to know about Canadian unlimited data plans
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/24/2019 • 38 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep 200: Impressions on iOS 13, iPadOS and more
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/14/2019 • 34 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 199: A Netflix tax could be on the horizon
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff reporter, Shruti Shekar is joined by the Editor of The Wire Report, Anja Karadeglija, to do a deep dive into the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Legislative Review. For the past few years, the Canadian government has promised to review the Broadcasting Act and the Telecom Act -- both of which date back to the early 1990s. Finally, last year, the government appointed a panel of seven experts to lead a review of this legislation. The panel has been accepting written submissions from various companies and organizations within the media and telecom industries to inform their interim report, which is due to release sometime this month. Ahead of this anticipated report, Shruti and Anja breakdown the written submissions of a handful of key players. With the exception of Shaw, one thing all of the major companies involved seem to agree on is a Netflix tax. It's important to note though that the term 'Netflix tax,' could mean multiple things and ranges from whether Netflix should be imposed a sales tax or whether it should contribute part of its revenue into Canadian content. Shruti and Anja also ask the question, why should we care about a legislative review of the Broadcast and Telecom Acts? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Total runtime: 30:23 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/7/2019 • 30 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep 198: What is the best way to get rid of a phone's notch
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff reporters Bradley Bennett, Jon Lamont and Dean Daley sit down to share their thoughts about the current smartphone market. Over the last few years, the smartphone industry has evolved significantly. The difference between mid-tier smartphones and flagship devices has diminished considerably. The SyrupCast team argues that regardless of the make and model of flagship phone these days, you're still going to walk away with a great phone. They also contend that as flagships become increasingly expensive, mid-tier phones might just start taking over the smartphone market. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and their latest recommendations of what phone you should buy. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 32:45 Shoutouts: 30:00 Brad gives his shoutout to Anne, his apartment's ghost. Jon gives his shoutout to AMD and their rumoured CPUs. And Dean shouts out the upcoming Nioh 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/24/2019 • 32 minutes, 45 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 197: The Nexus returns
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/13/2019 • 40 minutes, 44 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 196: The unfolding of Samsung?
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/29/2019 • 40 minutes, 44 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 195: What does the 600Mhz spectrum auction mean?
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff reporter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff reporter Shruti Shekar, Financial Post telecom reporter Emily Jackson and Yahoo Finance reporter Alicja Siekierska, discuss their recent trip to Huawei's headquarters in Shenzhen, China. Huawei has been in the news a lot lately. The company is at the forefront of developing 5G infrastructure but has also garnered attention recently regarding its legal troubles. Whether it's the arrest of CFO Meng Wanzhou back in December of 2018, the charges the U.S. recently brought against Huawei, or the lawsuit the China-based tech giant launched against the U.S. in response, Huawei has been under a lot of scrutiny lately. Until recently, Huawei has also been a very private operation. The company rarely speaks to reporters and is generally reluctant to open its doors to the media. Now, in an attempt to regain the public's trust, Huawei invited four Canadian reporters -- Shruti, Emily, and Alicja being three of the four -- to Huawei's headquarters in Shenzhen, China. The question now is whether Huawei will be able to turn it's PR crisis around and win back the world's trust. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 49:15 mily, and Alicja being three of the four -- to Huawei's headquarters in Shenzhen, China. The question now is whether Huawei will be able to turn it's PR crisis around and win back the world's trust. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 49:15 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/8/2019 • 49 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 193: So Oprah, Big Bird and Spielberg walk into a bar...
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/29/2019 • 37 minutes, 40 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 192: What is spectrum and how is it used?
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup staff writer Shruti Shekar and Globe and Mail telecom report Christine Dobby ask the question, "what is spectrum and why is it important?" Last week, Canada began auctioning off the 600 MHz spectrum to twelve different players. This spectrum is low-frequency and capable of passing through buildings as well as travelling long distances. Shruti and Christine discuss how this will allow Canadian carriers to serve rural and urban areas of the country better, especially as 5G becomes available in Canada. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 29:29 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/22/2019 • 29 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 191: Delving into dark corners of Android Q
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/18/2019 • 34 minutes, 45 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 190: Exploring new galaxies and getting lost at MWC
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, and staff writer Dean Daley discuss the latest and greatest in phones following Mobile World Congress and dig into Samsung's new Galaxy S10. Last week, Dean travelled to Barcelona for Mobile World Congress. What got everyone excited, including Dean, was all the foldable smartphone technology at the show this year. The (possibly) innovative phones feature a hefty price tag though, with Huawei's Mate X coming in at an outstanding $3,425 CAD. The Syrupcast team discusses how they feel foldable devices will fair in the long term, and whether the foldable displays will stand the test of time. Another major point of focus at this year's MWC was 5G phones. As countries around the world build out the infrastructure necessary for the next generation in wireless technology, companies are scrambling to release smartphones capable of handling 5G. Even though there were prototype devices on display at MWC, it's unlikely Canadians will get their hands on them anytime soon given 5G isn't set to start going online in Canada until 2020 at the earliest. Finally, the team turns to talking about the Samsung Galaxy S10. Patrick, who has spent a few weeks with the phone, explains that the S10 is a great phone that "doesn't really have anything wrong with it" -- as long as you can afford its expensive price tag. You can find a full link to his Galaxy S10, S10+ and S10e review here. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 33:35 Mobile World Congress: 2:00 5G phones: 17:30 Samsung Galaxy S10: 24:00 Shoutouts: 30:36 Igor gives his shoutout to Tim Apple. Patrick gives his shoutout to Respawn Entertainment's new battle royale game Apex Legends. And Dean shouts out Pokémon Sword and Shield coming to the Switch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/8/2019 • 33 minutes, 34 seconds
Viewer Experience Podcast Ep. 10: We didn't start the 'Fyre' Festival
While U.S.-based streaming giant Netflix's catalogue of original film still leaves quite a bit to be desired, there's respite in knowing that the over-the-top streaming platform's selection of original documentaries continue to impress. This week, MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke discuss Netflix's Fyre: The Greatest Party that Never Happened, and share their opinions on the second major Fyre Festival documentary to debut on a U.S. streaming platform. Later on the show, Sameer speaks with Toronto-based online content creator Casie Stewart to talk about online influencing, while University of Toronto professor Megan Boler addresses Sameer's questions about the glorious dream of the internet and humanity' digital developments. In the interest of full disclosure, MobileSyrup recorded an original interview with Boler, and Sameer re-recorded the questions after the fact. This episode also marks Sameer's last appearance as the host of Viewer Experience. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Do you have any recommendations or suggestions for which movies we should discuss next? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Facebook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/7/2019 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 189: Welcome to our bread baking overlords
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/18/2019 • 28 minutes, 31 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 188: Apple comes to terms with reality
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1/4/2019 • 41 minutes, 14 seconds
Viewer Experience Podcast Ep. 9: 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch' wants to take away your choice
Black Mirror: Bandersnatch isn't just the latest episode of Charlie Brooker's acclaimed Black Mirror anthology series, it's also a visual novel that represents one of the most public Netflix experiments ever deployed. The film tells the story of a young programmer who finds himself in a strange reality loop while attempting to build a choose-your-own-adventure video game based on a fictional choose-your-own-adventure novel called Bandersnatch. This week, MobileSyrup reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke and staff reporter/video producer Shruti Shekar about Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. Later in the episode, Mike MacDonald, an author of the Choose Your Own Misery series of choose-your-own-adventure novels (and a former colleague of MobileSyrup's own Patrick O'Rourke), speaks about what it's like writing narratives that depend on continuous reader input. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Do you have any recommendations or suggestions for which movies we should discuss next? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Facebook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/3/2019 • 45 minutes, 43 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 187: Best Smartphones of 2018
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Daniel Bader do a year-end review of their favourite smartphones of 2018. Patrick's top 3 phones were the iPhone XS Max, the Pixel 3 XL, and in number 1 -- the iPhone XR. Daniel's top 3 picks were the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact, the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, and his number 1 pick -- the Pixel 3. Igor's top 3 smartphones for the year were the Huawei Mate 20 Pro, the Pixel 3, and his favourite -- the OnePlus 6. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 51:37 Shoutouts: 47:20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/23/2018 • 51 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 186: All I want for Christmas is spyware
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/14/2018 • 41 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 185: The human cost of Black Friday
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/22/2018 • 35 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 184: The Apple falls a little too far from the tree
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke takes over hosting duties and sits down with telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and reporter Bradley Bennett to discuss Apple's big October hardware event. Completely the opposite of what Patrick predicted a few weeks ago, Apple revealed a new MacBook Air at the company's October 30th event in New York City. The device comes across as a bit of a Frankenstein laptop, borrowing features from the modern MacBook Pro and the 12-inch Macbook. The team discusses the new laptop's various pros and cons. The SyrupCast team also chats about the new features coming to the 12.9-inch and 11-inch iPad Pro, as well as the Mac mini. The new Mac mini came as a bit of a surprise to most, and the team thinks it's an update not everyone is excited about -- though hardcore Apple fans are likely thrilled. Finally, the discussion turns to whether or not Apple plans to do away with more ports in its various devices. Are we moving towards a fully wireless future like Bradley predicts? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 32:48 Macbook Air: 4:15 iPad Pro: 9:20 Mac mini: 16:20 Shoutouts: 29:20 Patrick gives his shoutout to YouTube finally coming to the Nintendo Switch. Sameer's shoutout is to the CRTC, as expected. Finally, Bradley gives his shoutout to all the fallen ports out there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/9/2018 • 32 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 183: Dreaming of a new MacBook Air
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic and managing editor Patrick O'Rourke discuss Apple's upcoming fall hardware keynote. Patrick is heading out to Apple's Fall event in New York on October 30th. There are quite a few devices expected to be revealed at this year's keynote, including a new iPad Pro, an updated MacBook Air, the iPad Mini, the Mac Mini, the AirPower, and second-generation AirPods. Rumours indicate Apple's 2018 iPad Pro will come equipped with USB-C this time around, making Apple's iPhone the only device that still features the companies proprietary Lighting port technology. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 35:51 Apple Event expectations: 2:15 Air pricing predictions: 13:30 Pat's predictions: 15:00 Shoutouts: 26:15 Igor gives his shoutout to his friend Vanessa's birthday. Patrick gives his shoutout to Call of Duty Black Ops 4's battle royale Blackout mode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/26/2018 • 35 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 182: Welcome to kushland
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup telecom reporter Corey Herscu discuss the legalization of cannabis in Canada. If you haven't heard by now, recreational use of Cannabis is now legal in Canada as of October 17th, 2018. The team digs into the various technology and software solutions that have been popping up around the country in response to the big day. The team also talks about how to actually buy cannabis online. One of those ways, at least in the province of Ontario, is through the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS), which was built via a partnership with Canadian e-commerce company Shopify. Over the course of October 17th, the OCS' online store hit 100 orders per minute. The SyrupCast then looks to the future of cannabis in Canada. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 35:01 Shoutouts: 31:11 Sameer gives his shoutout to the CRTC's public hearing into aggressive sales practices on October 22nd. Patrick's shoutout is to Shooting Hoops. Finally, Corey's shoutout is to his team at RNMKR Agency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/19/2018 • 35 minutes, 1 second
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 181: Google Pixel remastered, with a notch
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, telecom reporter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/12/2018 • 37 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 180: We’re not mad, we’re just disappointed in the CRTC
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and freelance tech reporter and author Peter Nowak discuss everything the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has been doing lately. Last week, the CRTC issued a follow-up decision to the Canada Broadband Fund. Under the regulator's previous chair, Jean-Pierre Blais, the recommended broadband target was set at 50Mbps download and 10Mbps upload speed. Now the CRTC has halved that number to 25 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload for rural and remote communities across Canada. Friend of the podcast and telecom journalist Peter Nowak has some thoughts on the matter that he tweeted out last week. Among other announcements this past week, the CRTC denied the Fairplay Canada coalition on 'jurisdictional grounds.' The team talks about how the CRTC pointed out that there is already a copyright review under way in Parliament that it states is a better fit for the discussion of whether or not to block websites that facilitate piracy. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 38:22 CRTC 25/5: 2:00 Fairplay Canada: 10:00 Shoutouts: 34:30 Igor shouts out the LG G7 One. Peter gives his shoutout to LED lights. And finally, Sameer's shoutout is to Bloomberg's report on The Big Hack. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/5/2018 • 38 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 179: A notch too deep
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, staff reporter Dean Daley, news and telecom reporter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/28/2018 • 36 minutes, 8 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 178: 'Gather Round'
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, managing Patrick O'Rourke, telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and freelance tech reporter Josh McConnell recap Apple's recent fall hardware event. If you listened to last week's episode, you'd know that the team predicted what they expected to see at the annual keynote. Leaks indicated that the Apple had plans to add a larger display to the Series 4 Apple Watch. It turns out that the wearable's screen gained a substantial 30 percent, resulting in a shift that the team feels is a significant improvement to the Apple Watch. The updated iPhone XS and XS Max, on the other hand, are more iterative and have the team considerably less thrilled, with the entry-level iPhone XR being the most compelling new announcement to come out of the event. The XR still includes the majority of the XS' and XS Max's most exciting features but includes a colourful body and a more affordable price tag. As was mentioned last week, it seems Apple will likely hold an additional fall event focused on an updated MacBook Air, second-generation AirPods and a new iPad Pro. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 41:27 Apple event rundown: 2:00 Shoutouts: 35:50 Igor shouts out 71. Patrick gives his shoutout to the MobileSyrup team. Josh's shoutout this week is to Jack Ryan. And finally, Sameer's shoutout is Uber and their investment in Toronto. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/14/2018 • 41 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 177: iPhone Xtra Small Maxx
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic and managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, along with freelance tech reporter Josh McConnell and MacRumors tech reporter Joe Rossigno, discuss what they expect to see at Apple's upcoming September 12th fall hardware event. As far as leaks go, we will almost certainly catch a glimpse of the rumoured iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max. The team also expects to see the Apple Watch Series 4, a new version of Apple's smartwatch that's tipped to feature a larger display and smaller bezels. Further, the team doesn't think that the new MacBook Air will debut at next week's event. A bold prediction is that Apple could hold an additional keynote in October like the company did back in 2016 to reveal a revamped MacBook Air and new version of the iPad Pro. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Subscribe on iTunes Direct download link Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 35:23 iPhone XS: 2:00 Apple Watch 4: 16:20 Macbook Air: 21:10 Shoutouts: 29:14 Igor shouts out Daniel Bader and his wife and their new baby. Patrick brings back the 'Switch Minute' and shoutouts Into The Breach. Josh's shoutout this week is to National Cheese Pizza Day. And finally, Joe shouts out everyone living in the '905'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/7/2018 • 35 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 176: Is Samsung's Galaxy Note 9 a worthy upgrade?
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, and staff writer Jon Lamont, catch up on the last three week's worth of mobile news. The Galaxy Note 9 has the team talking smart phone pricing expectations and what Samsung's latest smartphone means for the future of iterative smartphone updates. The Note 9, starting at an expensive $1299 CAD, has the team questioning how expensive smartphone prices will get in the coming years. An added feature to this iteration of the Note series is the S Pen's Bluetooth-enabled photo snapping functionality. You can now use the Note 9's S Pen as a shutter button, which the team argues is not enough of a draw to spend $1299 on a phone. That said, the Note 9 also features significant hardware updates, including a Snapdragon 845 Processor and 8GB of RAM in the 512GB version of the smartphone. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 44:31 Samsung Galaxy Note 9: 1:30 Shoutouts: 34:30 Igor shouts out the book Creativity Inc. Patrick brings back the Switch Minute and gives his shoutout to Octopath Traveler. Sameer's shoutout this week is to Voice Inc. And finally, Jon's shoutout is sent out to Discord. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/14/2018 • 44 minutes, 30 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 175: Manitoba's unlimited data bytes the dust
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom editor Rose Behar and PHD student at Carlton University Ben Klass, talk about all the telecom and mobile news from the past two weeks. Justin Trudeau has shuffled his cabinet, replacing Melanie Jolie, Canadian Heritage Minister, with Pablo Rodriguez. The team discusses what they think the change will mean for Canadians. Also in the last two weeks mobile overage rates have gone up again. Ben Klass joins the podcast to discuss the impact of these increases. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 34:01 New minister: 2:00 Increased rates: 6:00 5G: 21:00 Shoutouts: 30:20 Ben gives his shoutout to his sister Rebecca, who just ran an olympic-length triathlon. Rose gives her shoutout to all of the reader's of MobileSyrup. Igor shouts out Rose and her work at MobileSyrup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/20/2018 • 34 minutes, 1 second
Viewer Experience podcast Ep. 8: Burning down the 'Tau'-se
Tau is yet another Netlfix science fiction film with an interesting, important core idea but a disappointingly shoddy execution. This week, MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra speakers with MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic about Federico D'Alessandro's Tau. Later in the episode, Lex Gill, a research fellow at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab, speaks about digital profiling and the ways in which our digital footprints are being used to target us. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Do you have any recommendations or suggestions for which movies we should discuss next? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Facebook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/10/2018 • 52 minutes, 41 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 174: BlackBerry banks on nostalgia with the KEY2
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra discuss the latest TCL-made BlackBerry branded smartphone, the KEY2. The KEY2 brings all of the features that BlackBerry fans have to come to expect from the partnership between the former smartphone giant and TCL. However, the smartphone's price tag lands squarely in flagship territory, making the KEY2 a tough sell in a hyper-competitive industry, especially considering its processor is only a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 660. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 17:23 Blackberry Key 2: 1:30 Shoutouts: 14:05 Sameer gives his shoutout to Justice Kennedy. Igor shouts out Viewer Experience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/2/2018 • 17 minutes, 23 seconds
Viewer Experience podcast Ep. 7: The Incredibles go 2 Washington
What makes Incredibles 2 so fascinating is how intimately aware it is of the current state of politics in the world. It's a movie set in the 1960s that somehow manages to address the conversations about feminism, gun control and identity that are taking place today. All that, and it also manages to cram in a story about screen addiction as well. This week, MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with MobileSyrup news and telecom editor Rose Behar about Brad Bird's Incredibles 2. Later in the episode, Fardous Hosseiny -- national director of public policy and government relations at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) -- sheds some insight on the subjects of internet, video game and screen addiction. For more information about the resources offered at the CMHA, visit the Centre's problematic internet use website. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Do you have any recommendations or suggestions for which movies we should discuss next? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/29/2018 • 33 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 173: Talking the future of the CRTC with Ben Klass
This week on the SyrupCast features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom editor Rose Behar and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra are joined by Ben Klass to discuss his recent proposal to the CRTC. Recently, Canadian carriers released information on low-cost, data-only plans for Canadians. The plans left a lot to be desired. Last week, a report filed by telecom analyst Ben Klass and professor of communication studies at Carleton University, Dwayne Winseck, proposed an alternate plan for low-cost, data-only rates. The proposal, called the 'CRTC flex plan,' suggests that people should be able to access a small amount of data (250 Mb) for $5, along with larger amounts of data at market prices. Additionally, the crew discusses the federal government's recent order for the CRTC to investigate high-pressure sales at Canada's largest carriers. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts on the matter. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 30:57 CRTC Flex Plans: 2:00 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/25/2018 • 30 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 172: The best of the best from E3
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Shankar, and Bradley Bennett sit down to chat their favourite games from this year's E3. Patrick's picks are The Last of Us Part 2, Halo Infinite, and Skull & Bones. Brad chooses to highlight Spider-Man, Kingdom Hearts III, and Super Smash Bros Ultimate. Bradley selects Forza Horizon 4, Fallout 76, and Sea of Solitude. Finally, Igor takes note of Ghost of Tsushima, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and Sable. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 39:02 Gaming galore: 2:45 Shoutouts: 31:30 Patrick gives his shoutout to Fortnite for the Switch. Igor shouts out Grime Fandango. Brad gives a shoutout to The Incredibles 2, and finally, Bradley gives a shoutout toRed Dead Redemption 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2018 • 39 minutes, 2 seconds
Viewer Experience podcast Ep.6: Netflix's 'The Titan'
A movie with a solid idea, but a relatively weak execution, Netflix's The Titan might just be the first movie that Viewer Experience is unable to recommend. It's a movie that's about biohacking, genetic engineering and space exploration, but that fails to deliver on almost all of those fronts. This week, MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke to try to get to the bottom of why Netflix's sci-fi slate seems to avoid being impressive. Later in the episode, Wise Elephant Family Health Team lead physician Dr. Sanjeev Goel speaks about biohacking and the SPARK Biohacker Summit in Toronto. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Do you have any recommendations or suggestions for which movies we should discuss next? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/13/2018 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 171: Looking back at WWDC 2018
This week on the SyrupCast features editor Igor Bonifacic, managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, and freelance tech journalist Josh McConnell, discuss all of the announcements from this year's WWDC. As Patrick returns from covering the events of Apple's World Wide Developers Conference, the team sits down to discuss their thoughts on everything that was unveiled. One notable difference at this year's conference in comparison to past keynotes was the lack of new hardware reveals. Among the new software updates announced during the conference are macOS Mojave, iOS 12 , tvOS 12 and watchOS 5. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 45:02 WWDC: 2:00 Shoutouts: 40:00 Patrick gives his shoutout to Moonlighter, a recently released indie game where you run a store during the day and go adventuring at night. Igor shouts out Patrick and his hard work. Finally, Josh gives a shoutout to the Nintendo Switch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/11/2018 • 45 minutes, 1 second
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 170: Netflix Tax II - More Netflix, More Tax
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and telecom editor Rose Behar chat about a new report recently released by the CRTC. Rose joins the team from Ottawa after attending a media event in Gatineau at the CRTC's head office. The report, requested by the Minister of Heritage and Innovation ahead of reviews of the Broadcasting Act and Telecommunication Act, suggested that internet service providers should contribute to media funding in the same way that cable providers do. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Rose gives her shoutout to VIA Rail. Igor shouts out the pipeline deal signed by Justin Trudeau. Finally, Sameer shouts out his podcast, Viewer Experience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Part of what makes HBO's Westworld so appealing to so many different people is how it can be so many different things all at once. It's a show that's simultaneously about artificial intelligence, video games, storytelling, all while being a show that, at its core, is about the wild, wild west. This week, MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with MobileSyrup news and telecom reporter Rose Behar to attempt to find out what Westworld all about. Later in the episode, University of Waterloo artificial intelligence professor Dr. Fakhri Karray speaks about AI research taking place in Canada, while British Columbia-based video game developer Raphael van Lierop sheds some insight on the subject of video game design. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/30/2018 • 52 minutes, 50 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 169: The problem with Google's AI
On the SyrupCast this week MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic and telecom editor Rose Behar chat about all things Google I/O 2018 related. This year at Google I/O there were over 100 announcements, with some being more notable than others. The company focused it's efforts on meaningful engagement and digital wellness. Among some of the most exciting reveals were Android P's beta and new updates to Google Assistant. Google also announced Duplex, the company's AI-powered phone call technology, which has many both worried and excited. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 34:47 Google I/O: 1:25 Duplex: 9:00 Shoutouts: 28:20 Rose gives her shoutout to Michael Geist's recent article. Igor shouts out the US Senate attempting to over-throw the net neutrality changes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/20/2018 • 34 minutes, 46 seconds
Bonus Episode - Viewer Experience podcast Ep. 4: Living in an 'Anon'-ymous world
Imagine a world without privacy or anonymity, where a totalitarian surveillance state has access to your deepest, darkest secrets. No, this isn't 2018 and we're not talking about social media, this is the world of Andrew Niccol's Anon. On this week's podcast, MobileSyrup telecom and business reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with managing editor Patrick O'Rourke about their thoughts on Netflix's latest sci-fi flick. Later on in the episode, Brenda McPhail, the director of the Canada's Civil Liberties Association's privacy, technology and surveillance project sheds some insight into the state of privacy in Canada. Dr. Ann Cavoukian, former information and privacy commissioner of Ontario and the director of Ryerson University's Privacy By Design Centre of Excellence, speaks about her theories on privacy by design. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2018 • 54 minutes, 49 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 168: 'ThinQing' twice about the LG G7
This week on the SyrupCast features editor Igor Bonifacic is joined by telecom editor Rose Behar and managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, to chat about the long-awaited LG G7 ThinQ. LG has announced its next flagship device, the G7 ThinQ, a smartphone that at least at the outset, seems to offer a solid experience -- though there's nothing particularly exciting about it. The phone has been long-awaited amid a flurry of rumours and leaks leading up to its release. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 32:25 G7 thoughts: 1:45 Shoutouts: 23:15 Patrick shouts out Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze. Rose gives her shoutout to Facebook's newly announced dating feature. Finally, Igor aires a grievance about some not so friendly reader mail. We record the SyrupCast in Toronto at StartWell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/7/2018 • 32 minutes, 25 seconds
Bonus Episode - Viewer Experience podcast Ep. 3: The real 'Avengers: Infinity War' was the friends we made along the way
This week, MobileSyrup telecom and business reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with staff reporter Brad Shankar about Joe and Anthony Russo's Avengers: Infinity War. Later on in the episode, storyboard and concept artist Rob McCallum and Western University media studies professor Tim Blackmore speak about science fiction, the film industry, sci-fi design and why we seem to love the genre. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/1/2018 • 58 minutes, 41 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 167: Low-cost data-only dreams with Laura Tribe
This week on the SyrupCast, features editor Igor Bonifacic is joined by telecom editor Rose Behar, telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra and Laura Tribe, executive director of Open Media, to talk about Rogers, Telus and Bell's proposals for low-cost, data-only plans. On previous episodes of the Syrupcast, the team has talked about the pending CRTC decision regarding Wi-Fi-first MVNOs. After the CRTC decided to uphold previous rulings against Wi-Fi-first MVNOs, it requested that existing telecoms offer low-cost data plans. The resulting proposals from the Big Three were released this week to much criticism from consumer groups and the public. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 36:17 CRTC decision: 1:38 Shoutouts: 31:25 Sameer shouts out the Supreme Court of Canada. Rose gives her shoutout to Broad band: The Untold Story of Women Who Made the Internet. Laura gives a shoutout to the monkey who took a selfie. Finally, Igor shouts out A Gentleman in Moscow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/27/2018 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 166: Let's talk about notches (again)
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic is joined by managing editor Patrick O'Rourke and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra to talk about Motorola's new phones and Patrick's look back at the iPhone X six months after the phone's release. Motorola just announced its 2018 series of mid-range smartphones. The team discusses the strategy behind Motorola releasing so many mid-range smartphones at once, as well as Sameer's experience at the company's G6 and E5 preview event in New York. On the high-end of the smartphone market, Patrick discusses what it's been like to use the iPhone X for the past six months. His main takeaway is that the gestures he initially found clunky are now so ingrained that he has a hard time using any other smartphone. He also has new thoughts on the look of the phone. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 34:43 Moto launch: 1:45 iPhone 10 updated review: 14:40 Shoutouts: 28:00 Sameer shouts out the House of Commons standing committee on access to information privacy and ethics. Patrick gives his shoutout to Nintendo for filing a wireless communication patent for the Switch. Finally, Igor shouts out the movie In The Fade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, MobileSyrup telecom and business reporter Sameer Chhabra speaks with telecom and business editor Rose Behar, as well as features editor Igor Bonifacic, about Steven Soderbergh's Unsane. Later in the episode, filmmaker Nicole Holland, as well as executive producer and director of marketing for Vancouver Film School Christopher Ian Bennett and festival operations manager for the Toronto Smartphone Film Festival Susan Lee-Pierce, discusses smartphone filmmaking and the potential future of cinema. If you're a victim of stalking, please visit the YWCA as well as the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/17/2018 • 56 minutes, 43 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 165: Pumping the brakes on Facebook
This week on the SyrupCast, telecom editor Rose Behar is joined by podcast producer Robyn Edgar and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra, to discuss Facebook's recent privacy issues, as well as the new Sony Xperia XZ2. Over the course of the past few weeks major privacy issues surrounding Facebook have surfaced. This week Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg held a call with journalists to discuss the Cambridge Analytica breach. On the call, Zuckerberg said that the original number of 50 million people affected is actually more in the ballpark of 87 million, 600,000 of those being Canadians. The team talks about what this means and what's next for Facebook. Back in the mobile tech space, the team gets into the pros and cons of the brand new flagship smartphone from Sony, the Xperia XZ2. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts on all things telecom. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 40:55 Facebook Privacy: 1:23 Sony Xperia XZ2: 25:15 Shoutouts: 37:47 Sameer shouts out Daniel Therrian. Rose gives her shoutout to Viewer Experience. Finally, Robyn shouts out her roommate for watching her dog Hewitt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/9/2018 • 40 minutes, 54 seconds
Bonus Episode - Viewer Experience Podcast Ep. 1: Are you ‘Ready, Player One?’
Believe it or not, we here at MobileSyrup enjoy movies and television almost as much as we love tech. Whether the subject is Steven Spielberg or Steve Jobs, the iPhone or I, Robot, you can be sure that someone at the MobileSyrup office has an opinion or interesting fact to share. Keeping in line with our love for tech and pop culture, MobileSyrup presents Viewer Experience, a podcast where tech meets pop culture. Tune in every two weeks for a brand new episode built around a newly released movie or television show and the technology used in it or used to create it. Each episode will discuss a particular movie or television show, the technology involved with it, as well as interesting people doing fascinating things within that particular tech space. Listener’s note: Viewer Experience isn’t replacing the SyrupCast. For now, they’re just sharing the same space. Eventually you'll be able to subscribe to Viewer Experience separately. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/6/2018 • 55 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 164: MV-and-No with Christine Dobby and Emily Jackson
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup telecom editor Rose Behar is joined by Globe and Mail telecom reporter Christine Dobby and Financial Post telecom reporter Emily Jackson, to discuss the current state of Canada's telecom environment. Last week the CRTC released an updated ruling on MVNOs in Canada. The team discusses how this decision impacts Canadians and if it will help drop the cost of phone plans. The team also predicts what the remainder of CRTC chairman Ian Scott's time with the regulatory body will look like and speaks about the new 600MHz auction framework. The podcast then turns to facilities-based investment. The Big Three feel that since they've put a lot of money into networks, they should solely benefit from them. The smaller providers, on the flip side, feel they should be able to piggy back off of existing infrastructure. With the new MVNO ruling, this discussion is again at the forefront of the telecom scene. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts on all things telecom. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 44:41 MVNO: 1:00 Facilities-based Investment: 15:00 Shoutouts: 39:00 Emily shouts out the call center operators that have to deal with people trying to better their phone plans. Rose gives her shoutout to Telus and Koodo raising their connection fee. Christine shouts out the podcast Note to Self. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/2/2018 • 44 minutes, 39 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 163: Facebook, why can't I quit you?
This week on the SyrupCast MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom editor Rose Behar and managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, discuss Sidewalk Labs and the recent controversy surrounding Facebook's latest data breach. People have been voicing concerns related to privacy at Sidewalk Labs, Google's new smart city development project in downtown Toronto. Rose recently spoke with Rohit Aggarwala, Sidewalk Lab's head of urban systems, who discussed the company's intentions and plans behind Sidewalk Labs. This past week news broke that Cambridge Analytica, a major analytics firm in London, U.K., exploited the data of 50 million Facebook profiles through third-party applications. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has since come out and apologized for the breach, stating that Facebook plans do better in the future when it comes to privacy. The team digs into the story and debates if regulating tech companies like Facebook should be the norm. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 30:32 Sidewalk Labs: 1:20 Facebook's Data Breach: 12:30 Shoutouts: 24:30 Igor shouts out his new cat Liam. Rose gives her shoutout to Hot Ones. Patrick shouts out the podcast Blink 155 #GetPatrickonBlink155. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/23/2018 • 30 minutes, 32 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 162: Civics lesson 101 with MobileSyrup
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom editor Rose Behar, and telecom reporter Sameer Chhabra, discuss everything CRTC related. The CRTC is in the process of putting together its program distribution report, of which streaming services will be an important part. Since foreign streaming platforms like Netflix aren't likely to divulge public information about subscribers and revenue, the regulatory body bent the rules and has decided to allow private companies to report confidentially, versus the usual public reporting. This means that even if Netflix does reveal numbers to the CRTC, Canadians still won't get to see that information. The crew talks about whether or not the CRTC made the right call, and gets into some Civics 101. Beyond Netflix, the CRTC has also been busy working on a decision regarding Wi-Fi-first MVNOs. If the decision goes through, the wireless market in Canada may be disrupted by low-budget providers. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 27:27 CRTC & Netflix: 2:00 CRTC MVNOs: 19:30 Shoutouts: 23:30 Igor shouts out John Chen. Rose gives her shoutout to Qualcomm. Sameer shouts out Innisfil, Ontario. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/16/2018 • 27 minutes, 27 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 161: MWC and the Samsung Galaxy S9
This week on the SyrupCast, features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom editor Rose Behar, and managing editor Patrick O'Rourke talk about MWC and Samsung's Galaxy S9/S9+. Very sleep deprived Patrick and Rose are finally back on the ground in Canada after a whirlwind trip to Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. The team discusses what MWC is, as well as what some of the biggest stories from this year's show are. Following up on last week's talk about the Samsung Galaxy keynote, the team dives into Patrick's recently published review of the Galaxy S9. The SyrupCast crew then switches gears and talks about the recently released developer-version of Android P. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 30:27 MWC: 1:37 S9: 9:00 Android P: 20:00 Shoutouts: 25:30 Igor shouts out Jon Hopkins. Rose gives her shoutout to her 5G for dummies. Patrick brings the Switch minute back after a hiatus and shouts out Donkey Kongas. We'd also like to thank Frontstream for providing us with a podcast recording space this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/10/2018 • 30 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 160: Taking MWC down a notch
This week on the SyrupCast, MobileSyrup head of editorial Igor Bonifacic and reporter Sameer Chhabra talk about MWC's various manufacturer keynotes. At MWC this year, Samsung's spotlight moment was overshadowed by the company's attempt to once again poke fun at Apple and the iPhone X notch. The joke not only fell flat, but also leaves us wondering how Samsung intends to brings its S Series design in to the future. Also at MWC were numerous discussions related to the feasibility of 5G. The discussions centred around the cost of equipment and how the spectrum will be deployed in different regions around the world. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 28:20 Not about the Notch: 1:05 Samsung does ARmoji: 15:00 Shoutouts: 25:00 Sameer gives his shoutout to the Lite Phone 2. Igor shouts out Into The Breach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/2/2018 • 28 minutes, 20 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 159: What we expect from MWC
This week on the SyrupCast, features editor Igor Bonifacic, telecom report Sameer Chhabra and YouTube personalities Matt Moniz and Ash Tailor tee up predictions for this year's Mobile World Congress. After a week off, the SyrupCast is back with predictions for Mobile World Congress 2018 (MWC). Rose and Patrick will both be headed to cover MWC 2018 for MobileSyrup. Leading into this year's MWC, we've already seen leaks for the Samsung's Galaxy S9, but new phones are also expected from ZTE, Asus, Lenovo, Sony, and more. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 22:49 Mobile World Congress predictions: 2:00 Shoutouts: 18:56 Sameer gives his shoutout to Rose and Patrick, who are headed to MWC. Ash throws a shoutout to the SyrupCast. Matt gives a shout out to all of the amazing tech journos and youtubers. Finally, this week Igor shouts out Team Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/24/2018 • 22 minutes, 49 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 158: 'Switch' to Jeff Bressard shoutouts
On this week's podcast, MobileSyrup managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, features editor Igor Bonifacic and freelance tech reporter Josh McConnell take a look back at the Nintendo Switch's first year on the market. The team discusses the great games that have made their way to the system, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Mario Kart Deluxe, and Splatoon 2. In the home console-portable hybrid system's second year on the market, the SyrupCast squad wants to see full-fledged online services, a solid line-up of first-party games -- we're hoping to learn more at this year's E3 -- and most importantly, a downloadable game blast from Nintendo's nostalgic past that spans systems ranging from the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) all the way up to the Wii. For more on the Nintendo Switch, check out my recently published editorial about the spectacular first year the system has had. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 37:37 Patrick shouts out Rose and Sameer for their hard work covering the Canadian and telecom industry this week; Josh hypes up his favourite day of the year, which is, of course, National Pizza Day; and finally, Igor, bringing things back to a more serious topic, shouts out the movie Call Me By Your Name. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/9/2018 • 23 minutes, 37 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 157: Is anti-piracy blacklisting FairPlay?
This week on the SyrupCast, feature editor Igor Bonifacic, managing editor Patrick O'Rourke, telecom editor Rose Behar, and freelance tech reporter Simon Cohen, discuss recent layoffs at Shaw as well as FairPlay Canada A group, known as FairPlay Canada, is lobbying the CRTC to begin blocking specific websites known for facilitating piracy. The group is backed by some of Canada's largest carriers, such as Rogers and Bell, leaving some to wonder about the long-term net neutrality implications a shift like this could cause. This week news also came out that Shaw is attempting to buy out almost half of the company's employees. Nearly 6,500 employees are being offered severance packages, with Shaw claiming that the move is because the telecom giant is moving towards automating customer service. The jobs being bought out however, tell a different story -- it's still unclear what's really going on at Shaw. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 37:37 Fair play: 1:30 Shaw buyouts: 18:45 Shoutouts: 31:00 Rose gives her shoutout to Netflix purchasing their first French Canadian film. Patrick throws a shoutout to Mario Kart coming to mobile. Simon gives a shout out to Nicolas Cage being inserted into other movies. Finally, this week Igor shouts out roam like home price increases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/2/2018 • 37 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 156: The Jeff Bezos CEO Swole Scale
This week on the SyrupCast, senior editor Igor Bonifacic, senior editor Patrick O'Rourke, senior reporter Rose Behar, and freelance tech journalist Josh McConnell, sit down to talk about Rogers' sales tactics and Josh's recent interview with Apple CEO Tim Cook. Reports about Rogers' sales practices have resurfaced as multiple employees have come forward with stories about their managers and supervisors pressuring them to “hit sales targets or risk termination.” These reports went further to expose the expectations that employees must up-sell products to unsuspecting customers. Rogers has vehemently denied this portrayal of the company's sales strategies. Also this week, Josh McConnell -- friend of the podcast and freelance tech journalist -- had the opportunity to interview Apple's CEO Tim Cook during his short (but sweet) visit to Toronto. The team is curious about what the famed CEO is like in person and whether he lives up to the hype. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 32:48 Roger's up-selling has gotten out of hand: 1:30 Tim Cook is ripped: 15:30 Shoutouts: 28:34 Josh gives his shoutout to Justin Timberlake's surprise album, dropping song by song. Patrick throws a shoutout to Sea of Thieves. Rose's shoutout is to Call Me By Your Name. Finally, this week Igor shouts out the Toronto Public Library for getting Kanopy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/29/2018 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 155: CES 2018 - After the Flood
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Ted Kritsonis, and Simon Cohen break the "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" rule and sit down to discuss this year's CES. This year's CES kicked off the voice-activated assistant war, as well as exciting new developments in the infotainment side of the automotive industry. When the weather was behaving, CES attendees got to see Samsung show off a 146-inch modular TV, Google Assistant made the jump to vehicles, and a wide range of other devices were shown off. Finally, the team talks also about LG recently discussing the possibility of rebranding G series of smartphones. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 37:30 CES: 2:00 Shoutouts: 32:45 Ted gives his shoutout to the Vegas Golden Knights. Patrick throws a shoutout to Nintendo for the Switch being named the fastest selling gaming console in Canada. Finally, this week Igor shouts out All The Money In The World. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, and now free agent, Josh McConnell, are back after a two week holiday break to bring you their opinions about Apple's recent battery fiasco. Just before the holidays, Apple confirmed that the company does indeed slow down older iPhone models in order to conserve battery quality. Apple fans are especially frustrated that they were not made aware of this feature and that the Cupertino, California based tech giant was forced to reveal that it throttles batteries only after it was uncovered. Apple has since apologized for its lack of transparency. As a result of the public outcry in response to the revelation, Apple has marked the price of replacement batteries down considerably. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 27:52 Apple Battery Scandal: 2:00 Shoutouts: 20:25 Rose gives his shoutout to the first concept phone with a in-screen fingerprint scanner. Josh's shoutout goes to Google Play Music. Patrick throws a shoutout to Mario Tennis Aces. Finally, this week Igor shouts out The Hospital Suite. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/13/2018 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 153: MobileSyrup's favourite tech moments of 2017
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Sameer Chhabra, and Rose Behar bring you the SyrupCast's end-of-year episode, looking back at the team's favourite tech moments of 2017. Patrick goes first and talks about -- I'm sure you're surprised -- the Nintendo Switch; Rose's pick is the rise of Freedom Mobile; Sameer's selection is the CRTC's precedent setting zero rating decision related to Vidéotron. Last, but not least, Igor's pick is the general ambivalence surrounding Samsung's Galaxy Note 8. Tune in to hear the team ring in the New Year! Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 25:37 Shoutouts: 20:25 Sameer gives his shoutout to MobileSyrup for giving him his first job as a journalist. Rose's shoutout goes to Nancy Drew and HeR Interactive's game update. Patrick throws a shoutout to Nintendo Power coming back as a podcast. Finally, this week Igor shouts out Robyn, the SyrupCast's producer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/1/2018 • 25 minutes, 37 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 152: They may take our bear, but they'll never take our Freedom
This week on the SyrupCast, Rose Behar and Igor Bonifacic are joined by Christine Dobby, telecom reporter at the Globe and Mail, and Daniel Bader, managing editor at Android Central, to take a look back the major Canadian telecom developments of 2017, with a focus on Freedom Mobile. A lot has changed over the course of 2017 in terms of Canada's telecom ecosystem. One of the most significant shifts in the space involves Canadian carrier unlocking fees being stopped by the CRTC. Freedom Mobile also underwent significant changes this year, with the carrier rebranding from Wind Mobile to Freedom Mobile, following Shaw's acquisition of the company back in 2015. With the CRTC unlocking fee ban recently going into effect, Freedom jumped at the opportunity to acquire new customers from the larger competitors in the Canadian telecom space. Freedom introduced a new, highly competitive plan that offered 10GB of data for $50, and in an unprecedented move, other major carriers and flanker brands responded with similar offers. The ensuing deal madness saw Canadians trying to take advantage of the offers being stuck in long lineups and customer service reps being overwhelmed with calls. Finally, and this may be the most important news of all, the Freedom Bear has officially retired. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 33:13 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/26/2017 • 33 minutes, 13 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 151: Hello from Hawaii
This week on the SyrupCast, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, and Sameer Chhabra sit down to discuss Rose's recent trip and answer a few listener questions. Rose, back at the MobileSyrup office fresh from her trip to the Snapdragon Technology Summit in Hawaii, gives the team a run down of all Qualcomm's major announcements from the event. The smartphone hardware manufacturer's new Snapdragon 845 mobile processor is set to include new features, including camera and AI improvements. The team also takes a look at some recently submitted listener questions. Will Freedom Mobile market the fact that all devices in Canada are unlocked? Is the Note 8 better than the iPhone X.? Listen to find out. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, and Sameer Chhabra Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 31:36 Qualcomm: 2:00 Listener Questions: 13:30 Shoutouts: 26:30 Sameer discusses recent political developments in the U.S. in his shoutout. Patrick throws a shoutout to Player Unknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) glitchy, but still fun Xbox One version. Finally, this week Rose shouts out Commisioner Mignon Clyburn and her speech about Net Neutrality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/16/2017 • 31 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 150: A game of goats
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Dean Daley, and Brad Shankar discuss their favourite games released over the course of 2017. As the year is winding down, the team felt it would be appropriate to reflect on their favourite games of 2017. Fair warning though dear listeners, this week's episode contains Spoilers. Patrick goes first and selects The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild, Destiny 2 and Splatoon 2. Dean picks Hellblade Senua's Sacrifice, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Nioh. Brad's selections are Persona 5, Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy. Last, but not least, Igor picks Hollow Knight and Prey. The team also dives into their most surprising and most disappoint games of the year. Tune in to find out which games the SyrupCast team picked. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Brad Shankar and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 42:58 Favourite games of 2017 discussion: 1:43 Shoutouts: 35:17 Brad gives his shoutout to Significant Zero. Dean's shoutout goes to PlayStation. Patrick throws a shoutout to Reigns: Her Majesty. Finally, this week Igor shouts out Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/9/2017 • 42 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 149: Unlocking fees are dead and the Mystery of Super Mario Cereal
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke, and Sameer Chhabra discuss the CRTC's recently officially mandated smartphone unlocking fee ban. It's now December 1st and this means that in Canada, carriers are no longer able to charge a fee to unlock customer's phones. The CRTC ruling to ban unlocking fees was initial revealed back in June, but the actual start date wasn't immediate. Now, however, carriers are required to assist customers when it comes to unlocking their phones, free of charge; regardless of whether the phone is newly purchased, or if it's a device you've had for years. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 45:40 Unlocking fees: 1:20 Listener questions: 26:00 Shoutouts: 38:30 Sameer's shoutout goes to InstaRyde. Rose is talking about the Jim Beam smart decanter. Patrick's shoutout is dedicated to Super Mario cereal. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to the books of Kazuo Ishiguro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/1/2017 • 45 minutes, 40 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 148: Freedom Mobile says hello to the iPhone, America says goodbye to Net Neutrality
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Sameer Chhabra discuss the iPhone coming to Freedom and the latest Net Neutrality news from South of the border. Starting on November 24th, Freedom Mobile will begin taking preorders for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and the iPhone X, all of which are now compatible with their networks. The team breaks down what the plans look like and what that could mean for the Canadian carrier market. In the United States this week, Turkey was being served with a side of FCC proposals that would do away with net neutrality. Luckily, Canada is still steadfast in it's support of keeping the internet fair for all. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 31:51 iPhone goes free: 1:40 Net Neutrality in the States: 15:48 Shoutouts: 27:43 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2017 • 31 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 147: OnePlus 5T and Ian Scott - both new, and both old
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke sit down to talk about the One Plus 5T and a recent interview with Ian Scott, the CRTC's recently appointed chair. The team is not exactly over-the-moon with the One Plus 5T, but they were even less enthused about the device's reveal presentation. Reflecting on the 5T's various features also brought the Pixel 2 back into the conversation. The team dives into the latest reports related to the smartphone's display issues. This week, Sameer conducted an interview with the CRTC's new chair Ian Scott following his first public speech. Among other things, the new chair said he is "neither pro-business nor pro-consumer." Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Sameer Chhabra, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 39:48 One Plus 5T: 1:40 CRTC Ian Scott interview: 20:00 Shoutouts: 33:09 Sameer's shoutout goes to the TrudeauMeter. Rose is talking about Bell and their roaming package. Patrick gives a shoutout to Amazon for launching the Echo in Canada. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to his hair dresser and her book shelf for recommending The Underwater Welder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/18/2017 • 39 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast podcast Ep. 146: Big in Japan
This week on the SyrupCast, Sameer Chhabra, Igor Bonifacic, and Patrick O'Rourke discuss how the Pixel 2 has behaved in the field since its release, specifically Japan, and the 2017 communications monitoring report for broadcast content. Igor spent the last two weeks in Japan and had the Pixel 2 along with him along for the ride. While he was traveling he had the chance to use the state of the art smartphone camera to take snap some photos. He was especially impressed with the Pixel 2's ability to take night photos. You can find some of those images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/10/2017 • 37 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast 145: Multiplied by the power of X
This week on the SyrupCast, Brad Shankar, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke discuss the iPhone X now that the team actually has one in the office, as well as theXbox One X. Patrick, in an impressive feat of journalism, flew to New York this week to pick up the iPhone X for an initial impressions review he completed in less than 24 hours. The team discusses what it is like to use an Apple interface with no home button and the intricacies of Face ID, Apple's new facial recognition authentication system. Moving on the the other X product that dropped this week. Microsoft's Xbox One X has officially hit the shelves. The console, which boasts true 4K capabilities, is also capable of running previous Xbox One games, which ensures that consumers won't be left scrambling to buy all new games. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Brad Shankar,Rose Behar,Sameer Chhabra and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 43:33 iPhone X: 1:25 Xbox One X: 18:40 Shoutouts: 36:40 Brad's shoutout is dedicated to the MobileSyrup team for pulling extra weight while Igor is getting big in Japan. Patrick shouts out the original Xbox games that are compatible with the new console. Sameer sends a shoutout to all of the Canadian agencies that helped with his recent story (and his Mom). Finally, Rose's shoutout goes to Razer phone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/3/2017 • 43 minutes, 32 seconds
Syrupcast Podcast 144: Google feels the burn-in and Apple faces facts
This week on the SyrupCast, Ian Hardy, Rose Behar, Dean Daley, and Patrick O'Rourke discuss two of the year's most highly anticipated phones; the recently released Pixel 2XL, and the iPhone X. Earlier this week was saw reports that the Pixel 2 XL's POLED screen is suffering from display burn-in issues. Problems like this usually pop up following years of usage, but the issues with the Pixel 2 XL's display are appearing just days after purchasing the device. Note: This weeks' SyrupCast was recorded prior to Google stating that the company plans to release a software update that will mitigate the screen burn-in problem the Pixel 2 XL suffers from. Speaking of manufacturing issues -- Google isn't the only company with supply chain problems. Apple is reportedly having difficulty sourcing specific parts for the upcoming iPhone X. The phone makes use of new Face ID authentication technology that is difficult to manufacture to the accuracy necessary for reliable functionality. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 31:48 Pixel 2XL screens: 1:30 iPhone X is extra exclusive: 13:40 Shoutouts: 26:00 Rose's shoutout is to Freedom Mobile's expansion to other devices. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, shouts out Super Mario Odyssey being released. Ian gives a shoutout to Ted Rogers. Finally, Dean's shoutout goes to Sameer for getting his Masters degree. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/27/2017 • 31 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast 143: Sorry Mom
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke discuss their thoughts on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. The team also weighs in on the announcement that Alphabet is investing in Toronto. Rose and Patrick both had the opportunity to review the brand new Pixel phones this week. The two chime in to give the team a well-rounded perspective on the updates to Google's new flagship smartphone. Toronto is putting a bid in to bring the city into the future. Not only is Alphabet staking a claim to making Toronto a smart city, the #6ix is also doing its best to attract Amazon's HQ2. Unfortunately, not everyone thinks getting a new Amazon headquarters is what Toronto needs. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 37:33 Pixel 2: 1:45 To Amazon or not to Amazon?: 17:00 Shoutouts: 31:47 Rose's shoutout is dedicated to Sameer since it is his birthday. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, shouts out some new Switch updates. Sameer sends a shoutout to Tony Lacavera and Bruce Croxon for their help with quotes in recent stories. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Moto X4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/20/2017 • 37 minutes, 32 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 142: When in Roam
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke break down the details of roaming with Canadian cell phones. The team is constantly on the road for press events, so they have a few tips and tricks up their sleeves to share with you. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team discuss their favourite roaming options, what services might cost you a surprising amount, and their thoughts on how roaming could be made better. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 34:47 Shoutouts: 28:24 Rose is talking about The Swift Life. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, shouts out Nintendo creating a Gameboy mini. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Blade Runner 2049 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/13/2017 • 34 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 141: Do Androids dream of the Pixel 2?
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by MobileSyrup contributor Ted Kritsonis to talk about Google's Pixel event and all things Sonos. The team does a deep dive into Google's recently revealed Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Among the other announcements at the Google event were Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/6/2017 • 36 minutes, 22 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 140: How many Trailer Park Boys episodes does $500M buy Netflix?
This week on the SyrupCast Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke discuss Netflix's announcement to dedicate half a billion dollars to Canadian content. Canadian heritage minister Mélanie Joly revealed the new deal with the American streaming giant that will see Netflix develop a Canadian production 'presence' and contribute $500 million to Canadian content over the next five years. It has yet to be revealed if the deal will entail a Canadian office and whether it will affect the tax status for the service in Canada. Reactions from Canada's media providers are mixed, but more details about Netflix's deal with the Canadian government still needs to be revealed. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 35:28 Netflix commits to CanCon: 1:30 Shoutouts: 28:20 Rose is talking about Bell Canada's suggestion at the NAFTA meeting. Patrick is shouting out the Sphero mini. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Sony for their decision to abandon OmniBalance design. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/29/2017 • 35 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 139: Speaking Frankly about the iPhone 8
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke sit down to talk Apple reviews and get Frank about phones. Patrick was at the Apple keynote recently and had the chance to check out all of Apple's new devices: the iPhone 8, the iPhone 8 Plus, the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple TV 4K. He sits down with the team to discuss his thoughts on the new devices and where Apple may be headed. Two young entrepreneurs in Ottawa found themselves in a bit of hot water recently after taking credit for designing a phone that was actually just a rebranded device purchase from Alibaba. Rose brings us a story about the Frank phone and sheds some light on both sides of the controversy. Finally, everyone's favourite part of phone announcements -- the leaks that tend to preempt them. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL designs have hit the web in advance of their official unveiling. The Syrupcast crew weighs in on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL's rumoured new look Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke and Sameer Chhabra. Total runtime: 39:59 Apple reviews: 2:40 Frank phone: 9:10 Pixel 2 and Pixel 2XL: 26:55 Shoutouts: 36:04 Sameer's shoutout goes to Daniel Therrien. Rose is talking about the release of the LG V30. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to golfing on the Switch. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Wes Anderson! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/23/2017 • 39 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 138: iPhone X gon' give it to ya
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by Josh McConnell, technology editor at the Financial Post, to discuss all the announcements from Apple's keynote. The Apple presentation this week showed off a variety of new devices, including the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, the iPhone X, the Apple watch 3 and a the Apple TV 4K. Both Patrick and Josh were in attendance at the much anticipated event and have plenty of takeaways to share with the SyrupCast crew. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke and Josh McConnell Total runtime: 41:16 Apple fall event: 2:00 Shoutouts: 36:46 Josh's shoutout goes to Patxi's Pizza. Rose is talking about Navdeep Bains defending his spectrum advantage for smaller competitors. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to the Super Mario Odyssey Edition for the Switch. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to The Current War! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/15/2017 • 41 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 137: The Freedom to buy a $1,400 iPhone 8
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke do their best to predict what will be unveiled at Apple's upcoming event. Apple's iPhone 8 keynote is coming up soon on September 12th, so the team sits down and does their best to predict all the announcements they expect to see at the keynote. It's anticipated that there will be a few new iPhones, a 4K Apple TV set-top box, and possibly a new LTE Apple Watch as well. This week also marks a SyrupCast milestone -- our first audio listener question! Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Sameer Chhabra, and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 45:00 Apple predictions: 1:30 Listener questions: 27:30 Shoutouts: 40:10 Sameer's shoutout goes to Sabarish Gnanamoorthy. Rose is talking about Harman's CEO throwing shade. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to his brand new neon yellow joy-cons. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Rose because this week is her birthday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/8/2017 • 44 minutes, 59 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 136: AR wars and the battle of the phablets
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ted Kritsonis, and Patrick O'Rourke dig into the pending rivalry between Google and Apple's AR offerings. WWDC this year brought us ARKit from Apple, but there is now another option for developers -- ARCore from Google. As the consumer version of iOS 11 is hitting phones in a few weeks, this arms race is bound to continue heating up. With the Samsung Note series back in action and the LG V30 recently revealed, the SyrupCast is comparing and contrasting flagship phones. Ted and Patrick were both at the release events and give their thoughts on what both phones have to offer. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ted Kritsonis, and Patrick O'Rourke Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 38:48 ARcode vs ARKit: 2:00 V30 vs Note 8: 19:00 Shoutouts: 32:52 Ted's shoutout goes to Houston and all of the efforts going to disaster relief. Rose is talking about Sony and their flagship phone. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle. Finally, Igor's shoutout goes to Wind River. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/1/2017 • 38 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 135: Note's return won't save you from Rogers' rising prices
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ian Hardy, and Sameer Chhabra discuss Samsung's triumphant return to the Note series and the increase in Rogers' Roam Like Home pricing. Last year's Note 7 issues are behind us now, but the reminders of Samsung's problems can still be found at airports. The SyrupCast crew is wondering if the release of the Note 8 will be enough to overcome the Note 7's errors. Additionally, they're pondering how the Note 8 stacks up in comparison to the other smartphone options now. With the Essential phone, Samsung's own Galaxy S8 and S8+ phones, and the pending iPhone 8 launch - competition is fierce. In other mobile news this week, Roger's has increased the price of their Roam Like Home deal. The option has increased to $6 per day. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ian Hardy and Sameer Chhabra Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 35:38 Note 8: 1:40 Roam like home: 24:47 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/25/2017 • 35 minutes, 58 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 134: One Essential Phone and too many streaming apps
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Dean Daley, Sameer Chhabra, and Brad Shankar discuss their thoughts about the Essential phone and discuss the direction streaming video platforms are headed. Igor recently got his hands on the Essential phone and outlines his first impressions of the device on the podcast. Is it possible for Andy Rubin to break into the already crowded Android market space? Sameer leads the back half of the podcast with a deep dive discussion on the direction streaming seems to be going. Disney announced last week that it will be pulling content from Netflix to start it's own streaming platform. It isn't the only company with sights set on getting into the streaming game, which has the team wondering -- how many services will we need to buy into to see the content we want to see? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Total runtime: 31:31 Essential phone, hands on: 2:18 The future of streaming: 19:24 Shoutouts: 29:30 Sameer shouts out Andy Rubin. Dean gives his shoutout to Rose. Rose's shoutout goes to Freedom's super cheap phone plans. Finally, this week Brad shouts out his review of Uncharted: The Lost Legacy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/18/2017 • 31 minutes, 30 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 133: iPhone 8 leakfest
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke are joined once again by Tom Emrich, founder of We Are Wearables and partner at Super Ventures, to talk about the recent iPhone 8 leaks. Last week, major leaks about the much anticipated iPhone 8 surfaced thanks to Apple's release of HomePod firmware. Contained within the software update were references that gave away some of the secret sauce about updates to the soon-to-come iPhone. Among the biggest spoilers: face unlock using BiometricKit, no more home button, a wrap-around display design, and a tap-to-wake function. In other smart device news, Fitbit seems to be leaning into the smart watch market. The team discusses what this might look like and wonders, does the world need another smartwatch? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Today’s podcast is brought to you by Aviva Canada, a leading property and casualty insurance group providing home, automobile, leisure/lifestyle and business insurance to 2.9 million customers. Severe weather and natural disasters are on the rise, and Aviva’s Plan & Protect app will help your family prepare for earthquakes, severe wind, winter storms, wildfires, and floods. It tells you what to do before, during and after these events, stores your insurance info and works without Wi-Fi. Download it free from the App Store or Google Play, and Aviva will donate $5 to the Canadian Red Cross. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/12/2017 • 35 minutes, 54 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 132: Is AR the future of mobile?
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by Tom Emrich, Founder of We Are Wearables and Partner at Super Ventures, to talk about Apple's ARKit and the future of reality. This past week, Rose jetted off to the west coast to learn about the ZenFone AR. This ASUS phone is Tengo-enabled and even Google Daydream VR certified. Discussing this new phone gets the team thinking about the future of mobile tech and AR/VR. What does the future hold? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke, andTom Emrich Total runtime: 34:23 Shoutouts: 29:10 Patrick, on the #SwitchMinute, shouts out a long-wanted battery-monitoring fix from Nintendo. Tom gives his shoutout to Neurable and their brain-controlled VR. Rose's shoutout goes to La Machine and their mechanical beasts. Finally, this week Igor shouts out David S and his books on photography. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/4/2017 • 34 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 131: 'I Am Legend' spoilercast
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Galang, Dean Daley, and Brad Shankar are bringing you a special episode on their favourite seventh generation video games. Fair warning, dear listeners, this week's episode contains spoilers. Jessica, news editor at BetaKit, goes first and chooses The Last of Us, Bioshock and Catherine. Dean gives his top three picks to Skyrim, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, and Dishonoured. Brad's selections are Uncharted 2, Mass Effect 2, and Batman: Arkham City. Last, but not least, Igor picks Red Dead Redemption, Dead Space 2, and Assassin's Creed 2. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts on each game. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Galang, Dean Daley, and Brad Shankar Total runtime: 33:32 Shoutouts: 29:27 Brad gives his shoutout to the trailer for the new Avengers movie, which was leaked after Comic Con. Dean's shoutout goes to his friend Dylan who got him into gaming in the first place. Jess throws a shoutout to Catherine, her third pick -- since she didn't get to talk about it enough on the podcast. Finally, this week Igor shouts out Dunkirk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/28/2017 • 33 minutes, 32 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 130: Telus is the Illuminati
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by Peter Nowak to talk about former Telus executive, Ian Scott, joining the CRTC and the future of wireless in Canada. Scott, who has 25 years of experience in the Telecom industry, will be taking over as the head of the CRTC. The team is wondering if Scott will follow in the footsteps of Jean-Pierre Blais and be a consumer advocate, or if he will toe the party line. As the government works hard to ensure fair rulings in Telecom, the industry itself is trying to push for improved technology and better offerings. Huawei and Telus just finished testing 5G technology in BC and the advances has the SyrupCast team pondering the future impact on wireless in Canada. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Peter Nowak Total runtime: 39:23 Ian Scott to head the CRTC: 2:00 5G: 22:40 Shoutouts: 33:00 Patrick, on the #SwitchMinute, shouts out poorly designed voice chat system. Peter gives his shoutout to the Jay's and their abysmal season thus far. Rose's shoutout goes to Bean Boozled. Finally, this week Igor shouts out the GoPro Film Guidebook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/21/2017 • 39 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.129: Fido data Freedom and Band 66 confusion
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Dean Daley, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke, talk about Fido's announcement to offer five free hours of data per month to their Pulse plan customers. The announcement comes just a week after Roger's, the owner of Fido, bumped their data overage charges up significantly. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Dean Daley Total runtime: 35:05 Fido: 1:10 Shoutouts: 28:45 Patrick, on the #SwitchMinute, shouts out Arms -- a game he didn't anticipate liking. Dean gives his shoutout to Android Police and their rendering of Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/14/2017 • 35 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.128: Smartphone dreams die at Canada's Wonderland
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Zach Gilbert, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke, discuss the ever increasing costs of owning a smartphone in Canada and get nostalgic about the past. Rogers increased its data overage rate this week by 40 percent and this has a lot of consumers up in arms. The team discusses what this rate hikes mean to the average consumer, why the cost has gone up so drastically, and what we can expect to see from the other carriers following this increase. Last week marked the 10th anniversary of the iPhone (at least in the States), so the SyrupCast crew is getting nostalgic over smartphones of the past and talking about their personal favourites. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Zach Gilbert, Patrick O'Rourke and Rose Behar Total runtime: 53:14 Rogers increases overages: 1:30 Favourite past smartphones & listener remarks: 25:00 Shoutouts: 44:55 Patrick, on the #SwitchMinute, shouts out the sfans adapter. Zach gives his shoutout to Canada's Wonderland and the new ride -- soaring timbers. Rose's shoutout goes to UberEATS for surpassing 100 cities. Finally, this week Igor shouts out Hollow Knight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/7/2017 • 53 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.127: Google Home, where is the Amazon Echo?
This week, the SyrupCast crew -- Igor Bonifacic, Zach Gilbert, and Patrick O'Rourke -- are joined by tech journalist and MobileSyrup contributor, Teddy Kritsonis, to discuss the Google Home coming to Canada and the release of iOS 11 beta. Canadian's have been long awaiting the arrival of a smart speaker north of the border. The Google Home is the first to be released officially in Canada and both Teddy and Patrick have had the opportunity to set one up and use them in their homes. This week also saw the public release of Apple's latest mobile OS, iOS 11. Zach and Patrick have downloaded and installed the update on their phones and tested out some of the operating system's newest features. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Zach Gilbert, Patrick O'Rourke and Teddy Kritsonis Total runtime: 42:55 Google Home: 1:30 iOS 11: 25:30 Shoutouts: 37:15 Patrick, on the #SwitchMinute, shouts out I Am Setsuna. Zach gives his shoutout to MobileSyrup's sister site BetaKit for Dead By Daylight. Teddy's shoutout goes to the amended drone rules. Finally, this week Igor shouts out the Expanse series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/30/2017 • 42 minutes, 54 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.126: Farewell to Canada's telecom wizard
Last week under the leadership of departing Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais, the CRTC announced that Canadian carriers can no longer charge unlocking fees. As of December 1st, 2017, all phones sold in Canada will no longer be carrier-locked. The decision is being touted as a win by consumer advocates because it means that the barrier to switching carriers and finding more competitive rates, has just been significantly minimized. This week, the SyrupCast crew -- Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy, and Rose Behar -- are joined by Globe and Mail telecom reporter, Christine Dobby, to discuss the tenure of CRTC Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais and the rulings that have been set out under his leadership. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ian Hardy and Christine Dobby Total runtime: 44:30 Shoutouts: 40:00 Rose shouts out the Huawei-Telus 5G tests. Ian gives his shoutout to MobileSyrup's sister site BetaKit for their event last week celebrating Canadian innovation in the start up space. Christine's shoutout goes to her colleague's exclusive interview with Warren Buffett. Finally, this week Igor shouts out a birthday gift that Rose got him -- Norwegian Wood by Murakami. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/26/2017 • 44 minutes, 29 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.125: E3, Xbox One X, Sony and Nintendo
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Sameer Chhabra, and Brad Shankar are joined by Patrick O'Rourke who is live on location in LA for the Electronic Entertainment Expo, also known as E3. Patrick fills the team in on how this year's E3 differed from previous years by letting in the general public and how he thinks that may affect the direction the conference goes in next year. The team weighs in on some of the most significant announcements, such as the new Xbox One X, Nintendo's announcements -- both Switch-related and otherwise, and long awaited game reveals from Ubisoft's Canadian studios. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Brad Shankar, Sameer Chhabra Total runtime: 36:29 E3: 2:30 Shoutouts: 31:25 Patrick is bringing us the #SwitchMinute straight from E3. This week, his shoutout is more of a head shake in the direction of Nyko and their strange E3 booth. New to the pod, Sameer Chhabra, shouts out the CRTC for requiring all phones be unlocked by December 1st. Brad sends his shoutout to the parody Twitter account CEO Kaz Hirai. Last but not least, Igor shouts out departing intern Sameer Chhabra, who will be starting with CBC this coming week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2017 • 36 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep.124: WWDC and the Canadian Telecom Summit
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Zach Gilbert are joined by Patrick O'Rourke who is live on location in San Jose for this year's WWDC. This week, Apple held its annual developer conference, WWDC, in San Jose, California. The main event was chalk full of major announcements for developers, but surprisingly also contained many hardware reveals. Among some of the more notable announcements were a Kaby Lake-powered iMac, MacBook and MacBook Pro, ARKit, iOS 11, a new10.5 inch iPad Pro, and the HomePod. The Canadian Telecom Summit was also this week. Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains, called for the CRTC to reconsider their previous decision regarding MVNO access to incumbent networks. Closing out the conference was a message from south of the border. FCC Chairman, Ajit Pai, addressed the conference via video message, advocating against heavy regulation in the telecom industry. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Zach Gilbert Total runtime: 55:23 WWDC: 1:45 Listener Mail: 28:10 Canadian Telecom Summit: 39:50 Shoutouts: 51:30 Subscribe on iTunes Direct download link Rose tips her hat to the Huawei P10 Lite. Zach, avid movie-goer, shouts out the Cineplex 4DX theatre -- the first of its kInd in Canada.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/10/2017 • 55 minutes, 22 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 123: The 'Essential' Android Pay pod
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Dean Daley debate the usefulness of Android Pay and ask if it's 'Essential' for another high-end smartphone to enter the market? On Wednesday, Android Pay officially launched in Canada. Not all major banks are supported on the platform however, with both TD and RBC notably absent. Previous mobile payment platforms such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay have not experienced large-scale adoption in Canada yet, so the SyrupCast team is skeptical whether Android Pay will reach a mainstream audience. Andy Rubin's new company Essential has announced its first smartphone. The phone features many of the same trademarks as other high-end Android devices currently on the market. The unveiling has the SyrupCast crew wondering, do we really need another competitor in an already flooded Android market? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Do you have questions, comments, thoughts, or anything you would like addressed on the podcast? Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us a voice recording of your question or comment and you may end up featured in a future episode! Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Dean Daley Total runtime: 47:03 Android Pay: 1:40 Just the Essentials: 18:20 Listener Mail: 34:08 Shoutouts: 42:25 Dean's shoutout goes to Andy Rubin and his interests in AI. Rose is giving a round of applause to Zach Gilbert, MobileSyrup social media and community manager, for his Withings Body Cardio WiFi Scale review. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to the Nintendo Switch's ever complicated voice chat system. Finally, Igor is shouting out former MobileSyrup editor, Daniel Bader, and his review of the Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/2/2017 • 47 minutes, 2 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 122: The Surface is the new MacBook
This week the SyrupCast is trying something new! We are asking you, our listeners, to send in your questions, comments, thoughts, and anything you would like addressed on the podcast. Send us an email to [email protected]. If you're feeling extra adventurous, send us an audio recording of your question and it may make it into a future episode! This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, and Ted Kritsonis sit down to chat about Microsoft's upcoming Surface Pro. The team is excited to talk about the direction that Microsoft is headed with its Surface Pro 4 refresh, the Surface Pro. Is it possible that this is finally a true start to Microsoft's app ecosystem? Will we see a high-end smartphone next? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Ted Kritsonis Total runtime: 42:52 Surface Pro: 1:20 Shoutouts: 36:30 Ted's shoutout goes to 'The Woz' and his Toronto appearance. Rose is pumped about Android Pay coming to Canada and pouring one out for Roger Moore. Patrick, during the #SwitchMinute, gives a shoutout to 8Bitdo for making its retro-inspired controllers compatible with the Switch . Finally, Igor is back to book suggestions and this week his shoutout goes to Stay A While and Listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/26/2017 • 42 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 121: Google Home comes home to Canada
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Brad Shankar discuss the ins and outs of this year's Google I/O. Google I/O's keynote included major announcements this year, especially for Canadians, with the Google Home finally becoming available north of the border. Along with hardware announcements came updates to Android O, Google's next-gen mobile operating system. We also learned that Android Pay is finally set to officially launch in Canada at some point in the near future. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Brad Shankar Total runtime: 32:57 Google I/O: 1:15 Android O thoughts: 22:30 Shoutouts: 28:00 Shoutouts Brad's shoutout goes to Injustice 2. Rose gives a nod to Tecla, a company helping differently-abled people use touchscreen devices. Patrick, per usual, gives a shoutout to the new and funky coloured Nintendo Switch controllers. Finally, Igor pays homage to the late, great Chris Cornell, who passed away this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/19/2017 • 32 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 120: How to 'Build' a podcast?
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Dean Daley are joined by Rose Behar who is attending Microsoft Build 2017 in Seattle. With Build 2017 already well underway, Rose walks the team through all of the latest announcements from Microsoft as well as what the company seems to have left in its past. Also in the news this week, Amazon announced the new Echo Show, a voice activated speaker that feature's a 7-inch touch screen. This device unveiling comes on the heels of Microsoft's Cortana-powered Invoke announcement, whispers of a Windows 10 HomeHub, and rumours that Apple is also aiming to make a play into the smart home market with its own device. The team is beginning to wonder, are voice activated smart home devices the new tech frontier? Or are they just another tech gimmick bound to be forgotten in a few years. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Dean Daley Subscribe on iTunes Direct download link Total runtime: 29:18 Microsoft Build 2017: 1:30 Amazon Echo Show: 10:15 Shoutouts: 25:05 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/12/2017 • 29 minutes, 17 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 119: Surface level
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Rose Behar welcome MobileSyrup's newest staff writer Bradly Shankar to the podcast, and talk all about Microsoft's New York City education event. On Tuesday, Microsoft held an education-focused hardware event in New York City. In attendance to take it all in was MobileSyrup senior reporter, Rose Behar. Among the announcements were the new Surface Laptop, mixed reality using the Surface Laptop's webcam, an educational version of Minecraft, and Windows 10 S -- a slimmed down, education-focused response to Google's Chrome OS. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert, and Brad Shankar Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Total runtime: 26:17 Microsoft's Education Event: 1:26 Shoutouts: 22:05 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/5/2017 • 26 minutes, 16 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast Ep. 118: Say goodbye to Vidéotron's Unlimited Music
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert, and Rose Behar give the low down on the fight for net neutrality in Canada. On April 20th, the CRTC ruled that Videotron's zero rated Unlimited Music service could no longer operate in its current form given the carriers preferential treatment of certain customers and music streaming platforms. The CRTC also went on to use this ruling as a means of strengthening their stance in favour of net neutrality by introducing stricter regulations regarding differential pricing. These new guidelines has a Trump advisor in the U.S., a country that recently opted to go the opposite direction in regards to net neutrality, up in arms. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think about this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert, and Rose Behar Total runtime: 36:16 CRTC net neutrality: 1:45 Shoutouts: 32:20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/28/2017 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 117: The 'Essential' S8 podcast
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert, and Ian Hardy give their updated perspectives on the Samsung Galaxy S8 and speculate about Andy Rubin's rumoured Android phone. The MobileSyrup team has had its hands on the Galaxy S8 for a few weeks now and is bringing you their more detailed impressions of the device, including the phone's design, comparing it to LG's G6 and Bixby's lacklustre launch. The team also discusses a new (though also kind of old player) possibly player entering the game very soon. Andy Rubin, co-founder of Google's Android operating system, is working on a new smartphone called the 'Essential' following the device's promising looking specs recently leaking. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think about this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert, and Ian Hardy Total runtime: 36:49 Hands-on S8 reviews: 1:25 Is Andy Rubin building the best android smartphone on the market?: 17:15 Shoutouts: 33:40 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/21/2017 • 36 minutes, 49 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 116: Is the Nintendo Switch worth buying?
This week the SyrupCast is 'Switch-ing' it up and bringing you a special video game focused episode. After having a couple of weeks to play with the Nintendo Switch, MobileSyrup senior editors Igor Bonifacic and Patrick O'Rourke, as well TechCrunch transportation and automotive reporter Darrell Etherington and Financial Post reporter Josh McConnell, sit down to discuss their initial impressions of the console. The squad talks about The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild and looks at the system's future release line-up, which as of right now, still looks pretty sparse. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Note: This podcast was recorded prior to the announcement of new summer game releases and a Joy-con battery pack accessory. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Darrell Etherington, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 34:46 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/13/2017 • 34 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 115: Feels so fly like a G6
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, and Ian Hardy talk about the LG G6 and Toronto City Council's plea to the CRTC for unlimited data. This week marks the Canadian launch of LG's newest flagship phone, the G6. Following the recent release of Samsung's Galaxy S8, the SyrupCast crew is asking if this is a swing and a miss for LG? Does a $100 price difference make any difference to someone in the market for a new high-end smart phone? It is no secret that Canadian's pay exorbitant amounts for cell phone plans in comparison to other countries, and MobileSyrup has gone into great detail covering this issue many times in the past. This week, Toronto's City Council has jumped on the bandwagon by introducing a motion asking the CRTC to pursue getting all major Canadian carriers to offer reasonably priced unlimited data plans. The motion passed, but the SyrupCast team is skeptical of the true intent behind the discussion and whether it will actually lead to any change. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 40:07 G6 or S8?: 1:50 Unlimited Data, just a pipe dream?: 22:45 Shoutouts: 34:58 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/7/2017 • 40 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 114: Will the Galaxy S8 redeem Samsung?
This week on the SyrupCast Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Rose Behar are joined by TechCrunch staff writer Darrell Etherington to discuss their reactions to the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+. This past week, Samsung officially announced the Galaxy S8 and S8+. MobileSyrup went hands-on with the much anticipated devices and are bringing you their hot takes on the device on this week's podcast. Although the phone will not be available until April 21st, Canadians are able to pre-order the devices now. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think about this week's episode. Did we mention that we're also giving away a Bell Samsung Galaxy S8? Enter by April 13th, 2017 at 11:59pm EST for your chance to win. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Zach Gilbert and Darrell Etherington Total runtime: 33:02 All about the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+: 1:45 Shoutouts: 27:20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/31/2017 • 33 minutes, 2 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 113: I believe Android O is the future!
This week, the SyrupCast crew is mixing up the hosting duties and bringing you their hot takes on Android O, the Samsung Galaxy S8, and Apple's Project Red. Join Ian Hardy, Rose Behar, and Zach Gilbert as they dig into the biggest mobile news of the week! Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to give us yours. Total runtime: 40:29 Android O: 2:15 Samsung Galaxy S8: 16:30 Project Red: 27:05 Shoutouts: 36:05 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/24/2017 • 40 minutes, 29 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 112: The Last Square
This week, the SyrupCast crew is taking you on a tour of their go-to apps - Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, and Zach Gilbert each select three of their favourite mobile apps to share with the rest of the team and you, the listener! Igor's picks: 1. Instapaper 2. Snapseed (and for Android) 3. 1Password Jessica's picks: 1. One Big Thing 2. Timeline 3. Netflix (specifically offline functionality) Patrick's picks: 1. Transit 2. Impossible Road 3. Plex Zach's picks: 1. Zombies, Run! 2. Cineplex App 3. Deliveries Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's reasons for their choices and jump in the comments to tell us what your go-to apps are. Total runtime: 49:05 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/17/2017 • 49 minutes, 4 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 111: Google Assistant and chill
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, and Rose Behar talk about John Pecman, the Competition Bureau Commissioner, and his comments regarding the prices of wireless plans in Canada. The team then switches gears to talk about Google Assistant finally starting to hit some Canadian Android user's smartphones. As all Canadians with a cell phones will tell you, Canadian wireless plans are among the most expensive plans in the world. In recent years, the CRTC has started to step in and regulate pricing, but this week John Pecman, the Competition Bureau Commissioner, has suggested that the burden of finding a reasonably priced plan should fall to the consumer. His comments have been met by a less than favourable response. Google Assistant is finally here for some non-Pixel Android owners. Canadians with Android phones running Marshmallow 0r Nougat are now receiving access to Google's AI-powered personal helper. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think about this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Jessica Vomiero Total runtime: 36:05 The Competition Bureau: 2:55 Google Assistant in Canada: 17:05 Shoutouts: 33:10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/11/2017 • 36 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 110: MWC power rankings and prison mixtapes
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke and Rose Behar are joined by MobileSyrup contributor Ted Kritsonis to talk about the announcements from Mobile World Congress (MWC) and the arrest of Samsung heir, Jay Y. Lee. Over this past week, the SyrupCast team has been keeping a close eye on MWC, covering all the smartphone reveals at the conference. With a plethora of new phones announced from Samsung, Huawei, Nokia, Sony, Blackberry, Motorola and LG, the team ranks their top picks. Samsung is back in the news for more unsavoury business this week, leaving the SyrupCast crew and many people around the world wondering, who will be left to lead the South Korean tech giant? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Ted Kritsonis Total runtime: 41:01 Mobile World Congress: 2:00 Samsung's arrested state: 26:20 Shoutouts: 36:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/3/2017 • 41 minutes, 1 second
SyrupCast Ep.109: Qualcomm vs. everybody and Mobile World Congress
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Patrick O'Rourke and Rose Behar discuss recent Qualcomm announcements and the team's favourite phones from Mobile World Congress. MobileSyrup staff writer, Rose Behar, travelled to the west coast recently to catch up with Qualcomm to learn more about the future of 5G. This week on the podcast, she brings back her newly acquired knowledge and some hot takes on the future of wireless networks. This weekend is also Mobile World Congress, the holy grail event for anyone interested in the future of mobile technology. The SyrupCast team gives some insight into what to expect from the event this year and makes predictions on which phones will be the centre of the media's attention. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar Total runtime: 27:52 Qualcomm: 2:20 Mobile World Congress: 15:30 Shoutouts: 22:45 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/24/2017 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 108: Wireless Code wizardry and Manitoba merger
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Patrick O'Rourke and Ian Hardy discuss Bell's acquisition of MTS and also go through a rundown of the highlights from the CRTC's recent Wireless Code review. Bell recently finally received regulatory approval to finalize its acquisition of Manitoba's regional wireless carrier, MTS. The new network, Bell MTS, will be launching on March 17th, 2017. In other CRTC news, the online discussion portion of the review of The Wireless Code has been extended until February 20th. Among other things, last week's review brought unlocking fees and disability services to the forefront of conversation surrounding Canada's telecommunications sector. The SyrupCast team remains hopeful that these discussions will continue and lead to progress and changes in Canada's wireless code. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Patrick O'Rourke, Ian Hardy Total runtime: 33:27 Bell acquires MTS: 1:20 CRTC wireless code review highlights: 21:00 Shoutouts: 31:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/17/2017 • 33 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast Ep. 107: Owner of an 'unlocked' heart
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke talk about the launch of Android Wear 2.0, as well as examine the Canadian telecom industry's sky-high mobile prices. LG has officially announced the LG Watch Sport and the LG Watch Style, both of which will run off of Android Wear 2.0. Although the company has confirmed the devices will be coming to Canada, it has yet to announce a solid date for their release. This week the CRTC also held a review of The Wireless Code in Gatineau, Quebec. Among other suggested changes, the CRTC is discussing implementing stricter regulations on wireless service cancellation fees. During the review, Freedom Mobile called on the CRTC to get rid of unlocking fees while adjusting the regulations spelled out in the now three year old Wireless Code. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 38:57 Android Wear 2.0 Launch: 1:12 CRTC & the wireless code: 15:00 Shoutouts: 36:00 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/10/2017 • 38 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast 106: The Super Bowl of Android Wear is coming
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke take a look at the the CRTC's decision to feature American commercials in the Canadian broadcast of the Super Bowl. The team also talks about the ZenWatch 3 and the future of Google's smartwatch operating system, Android Wear 2.0. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 36:29 CRTC throws a flag on the play: 1:38 Android Wear 2.0: 16:00 Shoutouts: 31:25 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/3/2017 • 36 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast 105: Will the Samsung Galaxy S8 still sell?
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Zach Gilbert, and Patrick O'Rourke talk about Samsung's many newsworthy moments from this week, including the South Korean tech giant's Q4 2016 earnings, as well recent leaks of LG's upcoming G6 smartphone. The SyrupCast team is a bit surprised by Samsung's relatively positive earnings following a tumultuous 2016, mainly related to the debacle surrounding the Note 7, but speculate that perhaps those numbers have yet to catch up with the company. LG on the other hand, has suffered its first quarterly loss in six years. LG is predicting it will make a quick comeback next quarter, however, with the announcement of the G6, due to make its big debut on February 26th. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Host: Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Zach Gilbert, and Patrick O'Rourke Total runtime: 36:37 All things Samsung: 1:50 LG G6: 24:30 Shoutouts: 32:20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/27/2017 • 36 minutes, 37 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast 104: 'Switching' to Freedom's LTE network
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by Shane Dingman, a technology reporter at the Globe and Mail. Rose, one of MobileSyrup's staff writers and a frequent contributor on the SyrupCast, starts off the show by relaying to the team how Freedom Mobile's new LTE compares to the other players in town. After spending a lot of time riding the TTC around Toronto, she is fairly confident that the speeds of Freedom's network actually bests that of Rogers'. 'Switching topics,' the SyrupCast crew talks Nintendo and the company's latest gaming console. The Nintendo Switch, set to release on March 3rd, is a truly mobile home console gaming solution, with a lightweight console that doubles as a handheld device. Finally, the SyrupCast team digs into the recent rumours that the Canadian government may soon require Netflix to charge sales tax. These announcements leave the team wondering if this is a policy voice waiting to be filled. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar and Shane Dingman Total runtime: 36:57 Freedom mobile's LTE network: 2:00 Nintendo Switch: 11:25 Netflix tax: 23:05 Shoutouts: 32:45 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/20/2017 • 36 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast 103: Automotive tech is the new darling of CES
This week on the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy, and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by MobileSyrup contributor Ted Kritsonis, who recently touched down in Toronto after a week in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show. The SyrupCast crew gets a first person account of what it's really like to attend the CES, including Ted's thoughts on the recently revealed BlackBerry device currently codenamed Mercury. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts and jump in the comments to tell us yours. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Ian Hardy and Ted Kritsonis Total runtime: 42:36 Ted talks CES: 1:45 Televisions at CES: 3:35 Blackberry 'Mercury': 21:00 MobileSyrup got a facelift: 31:15 Shoutouts: 34:10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/13/2017 • 42 minutes, 35 seconds
SyrupCast 102: The 'Mercury' is rising
On this episode of the SyrupCast, Igor Bonifacic, Zach Gilbert, Patrick O'Rourke, and Rose Behar look to the Consumer Electronics Show for hints of mobile tech to come in 2017. MobileSyrup senior editor Patrick O'Rourke and staff writer Rose Behar take the lead on discussing Blackberry's upcoming new phone, code named 'Mercury.' Although there is currently not an official name for the device yet, the initial hands-on revealed some unusual design choices for BlackBerry's next smartphone. The team then examines another mobile announcement from this week regarding LG no longer creating modular smartphones. Were modular smartphones just another marketing gimmick? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts and jump in the comments to let us know what you think of this week's episode. Total runtime: 35:41 Blackberry "Mercury": 3:10 LG ditches modular mobile: 15:20 CES shoutouts: 27:15 5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/6/2017 • 35 minutes, 41 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast 101: Looking back on 2016
On this episode of the SyrupCast, the entire MobileSyrup team squeezes into the podcast studio for a year end wrap up of their favourite tech stories from 2016. MobileSyrup director of social media Zach Gilbert is up first and discusses Blackberry's rocky 2016. The company has undergone drastic changes over the course of the past year, from handing off hardware production to TCL, to focusing its future on autonomous cars and software security, leaving the team to predict that 2017 will see a very different BlackBerry emerging from the embers. Staff writer Rose Behar selects the Samsung Note 7 to reminisce in her segment. Although Samsung had battery combustion problems with the Note 7, rumours regarding the impending release of the S8 are already circulating. MobileSyrup staff writer Jessica Vomiero does a deep dive into Canadian cybersecurity. Between rulings from the CRTC and the liberal government's approach to CSIS collecting data, the entire team agrees that 2017 will be a year where Canadians need to think carefully about their data privacy. Senior editor Patrick O'Rourke, in true Pokémaster fashion, brings Pokémon Go into the conversation as his favourite story of the year. The augmented reality app that brought the nostalgia of Pokémon to smartphones, has not seen continued growth following its initial boon in popularity, though the developer behind the game, Niantic, is starting to add new features to the mobile title at a rapid pace. Senior editor Igor Bonifacic directs the conversation to the successful year Microsoft has had. Apple has been at the forefront of the post-PC era, but 2016 saw releases from both Microsoft and Apple that hint at the end of Apple's reign. Ian Hardy, MobileSyrup's founder and publisher, chose Freedom Mobile as his favourite mobile tech news development of 2016. The company, formerly known as Wind Mobile, rebranded late in 2016 and launched its own LTE... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/30/2016 • 37 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast 100: Ghosts of Christmas past
Today is finally the day! It's the 100th episode of MobileSyrup's SyrupCast. As a nostalgic throwback in celebration of 100 glorious episodes, two of the original crew -- Douglas Soltys, BetaKit's editor in chief, and Daniel Bader, Android Central's managing editor and MobileSyrup's former editor in chief -- rejoin the podcast to reflect on past shows and the present state of mobile. This week, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Douglas Soltys, and Daniel Bader dig into the details of Rogers and Fido adding RCS messaging. The team then discusses the launch of Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/16/2016 • 59 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast 98: Goodnight Pebble
On this episode of the SyrupCast, co-hosts Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke and Zach Gilbert, bid a tearful goodbye to Pebble, one of the first manufacturers to release a smartwatch. This week the company announced that Fitbit would be acquiring Pebble for a significantly reduced price, essentially buying the Canadian founded wearable manufacturer for spare parts. The SyrupCast crew wonders at what point Pebble took a turn for the worse, and if they could have done something differently. Next, the team examines the most recent Samsung S8 rumours. Will the likely soon-to-be announced smartphone fare better than the Note 7? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts, and jump in the comments to tell us what you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/9/2016 • 50 minutes, 29 seconds
SyrupCast 98: What's going on with Google's Pixel?
On this episode of the SyrupCast, co-hosts Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert and Igor Bonifacic, start off the podcast with some candid takes on Freedom Mobile's first week. The company, formerly known as Wind Mobile, rebranded simultaneously with the launch of its LTE network, though the network didn't actually launch on November 27th as the company stated. The team wonders how this move will affect the "new" brand's reputation. Next, the MobileSyrup squad goes through a run-down of some of the Google Pixel's recently uncovered issues. Were the first reviews too quick to give the phone a glowing recommendation? Finally, the SyrupCast discusses Moto's decision to step away from the wearable market for the foreseeable future. Although the choice does not come as much of a surprise, it means Android Wear fans will now have one less option. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts, and jump in the comments to tell us what you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/2/2016 • 42 minutes, 55 seconds
SyrupCast Podcast 97: Pizza Pockets, antivirus software and freedom
On this episode of the SyrupCast, co-hosts Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy, Patrick O'Rourke and Jessica Vomiero, are joined by Josh McConnell, tech producer at the Financial Post. To start off the show, the crew delves into Wind's recent rebranding to Freedom Mobile and what that means for the telecom. Next, in a rather confusing series of events, VentureBeat reported that Equibit, a Toronto-based Blockchain security startup, named controversial tech figure John McAfee as its Chief Security Officer. Not long after, this claim was disputed by McAfee himself via Twitter. The MobileSyrup team was able to reach out to McAfee to get to the bottom of it all. The podcast crew wants to know, where was the disconnect? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts, and jump in the comments to tell us what you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/25/2016 • 41 minutes, 8 seconds
SyrupCast 96: Oh Snapdragon
On this episode of the SyrupCast, co-hosts Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, and Igor Bonifacic, recap Rose's experience in New York at the Snapdragon Technology Summit for the announcement of Qualcomm's new 10-nanometer chip, the Snapdragon 835. The crew also talks about the rumour that Amazon Prime Video could come to Canada soon, with thew new stemming from a by a tweet from former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson. In the second half of the show the team talks about CRTC chairman Jean-Pierre Blais' impassioned keynote at the annual Canadian Chapter of the International Institute of Communications conference, providing the SyrupCast team with insight into the current mindset of the CRTC and its future role in the Canadian telecom industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/18/2016 • 36 minutes, 20 seconds
SyrupCast 95: Living the next 4 years in a virtual world
On this episode of the SyrupCast, co-hosts Rose Behar, Patrick O'Rourke, Zach Gilbert and Igor Bonifacic discuss the implications of a Trump Presidency for Canadian tech and the tech world in general. The U.S. election has everyone voicing strong opinions and MobileSyrup's editorial staff is no different; the views expressed in this episode are not representative of MobileSyrup, but rather individual members of our staff. As an escape from reality, the team talks about the Google Daydream View, the next iteration of Cardboard. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts. Trumped up tech: 1:20 Daydream: 16:05 Shoutouts: 26:50 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/11/2016 • 33 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast 94: Why the big three don't want to keep things neutral
On this episode of the Syrupcast, co-hosts Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero and Patrick O'Rourke are joined by renowned Canadian tech journalist, Peter Nowak, who comes on the podcast to discuss the CRTC's stance on net neutrality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/4/2016 • 29 minutes, 53 seconds
SyrupCast 93: Can Microsoft out Apple by being Apple?
On this episode of the SyrupCast, we're steering away from mobile for the day and talking all about the latest and greatest in the world of personal computers. Co-hosts Rose Behar, Zach Gilbert, and Igor Bonifacic discuss Apple's much anticipated iteration of the Macbook Pro and dig into the details of Microsoft's Surface Studio. Is Microsoft coming for Apple's title as the big game in town? The team also laments the downfall of Vine as they discuss their own personal experiences using the application. Could Vine have been saved? Or was it past due to be retired? Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts, and jump in the comments to tell us what you think. Music credit: Jimmy Fontanez - Dub Hub Macbook Pro Impressions: 1:20 Twitter and Vine: 17:05 Microsoft Surface Studio: 23:07 Shoutouts: 28:55 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of the SyrupCast, we bid farewell to Rogers CEO Guy Laurence. The MobileSyrup crew, including Jessica Vomiero, Zach Gilbert, Ian Hardy, and Igor Bonifacic speculate on what this change in leadership may mean for the Canadian telecom giant. The team also discusses the rumours circling Apple's upcoming Macbook Pro redesign and the current uncertainty surrounding the often-rumoured Apple car. We also take a deep dive into Tesla making the move to release fully autonomous cars across all of its models. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team’s thoughts, and jump in the comments to tell us what you think. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Jessica Vomiero and Ian Hardy Duration: 36:08 We all discuss Guy Lawrence: 0:55 Zach Gilbert run down of next week: 13:44 Everyone talks Mac rumours: 14:35 Jessica talks Apple Car: 17:50 Tesla graveyard and autonomous cars: 20:00 Canada recruits students: 25:20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/21/2016 • 32 minutes, 10 seconds
SyrupCast 91: Total Recall
On this episode of the SyrupCast, Rose Behar, Jessica Vomiero, Douglas Soltys join Igor Bonifacic to talk about the final demise of Samsung's Note7 and Android Pay coming to Canada. Tune in to hear the SyrupCast team's thoughts. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Douglas Soltys and Jessica Vomiero Duration: 30:11 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/14/2016 • 30 minutes, 10 seconds
SyrupCast 90: Is Google becoming Apple?
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about the first smartphone built from the ground up by Google, the Pixel and Pixel XL, as well as Rogers' new worry-free data management feature. Rose Behar, Zach Gilbert, and Patrick O'Rourke join Igor Bonifacic to discuss their hot takes on Google's devices and ask the question, is Google becoming more like Apple? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/7/2016 • 30 minutes, 32 seconds
SyrupCast 89: Shomi BlackBerry's future
On this week's episode of SyrupCast, we dig into the downfall of BlackBerry's hardware division. Zach Gilbert, previously of TheBerryFix and Crackberry.com, and now MobileSyrup's director of social media and community manager, joins the podcast to give us his views on what went wrong. Also providing his views on Blackberry's decision, Douglas Soltys, editor in chief of BetaKit and former blog manager at RIM. As always, MobileSyrup senior editors Patrick O'Rourke and Igor Bonifacic also drop knowledge on both BlackBerry and Shomi on this week's podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/30/2016 • 37 minutes, 44 seconds
SyrupCast 88: Recall blues
Welcome to the new and improved Syrupcast! On this episode of our new an improved podcast we talk about the Note 7's ongoing recall, detailing exactly how the process is going to work, Google's new chat app Allo and the continued disaster that is Yahoo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/23/2016 • 37 minutes, 10 seconds
SyrupCast 87: The new hotness
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about Apple's iPhone 7 launch in Canada, Samsung's unfortunate Note 7 debacle, and the evolution of sound on our Podcast. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Ian Hardy Duration: 32:53 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/16/2016 • 32 minutes, 55 seconds
SyrupCast 86: Death of the headphone jack
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about Apple's iPhone 7 event and the reveal of LG's ticker display V20. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/9/2016 • 41 minutes, 3 seconds
SyrupCast 85: Modular regrets
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about how the beautiful Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is catching on fire and causing the company to recall all 2.5 million units it sold. In addition, once again, we speak about Canada's wireless speeds and connectivity. Finally, we venture down the path of the future of modular phones with the Moto Z play and Google's Project Ara. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, Ian Hardy Duration: 39:53 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/2/2016 • 39 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast 84: Running through Canada with our internet pricing woes
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about how comparably horrible Canadian internet is given the expensive wireless price tags attached to many subscriptions, and briefly delve into iPhone 7 rumours. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/26/2016 • 34 minutes, 51 seconds
SyrupCast 83: Note 7 and revenge of the SyrupCast
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about the official launch of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, Open Signal's latest wireless report and McDonald's entry and quick exit in the wearable market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/19/2016 • 40 minutes, 20 seconds
SyrupCast 82: Canada will never win the telecom Olympics
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about the CRTC's recently released international telecom study, confirming what we already know; Canadians pay a lot for home phone, internet and wireless services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/12/2016 • 36 minutes, 27 seconds
SyrupCast 81: Galaxy Note 7 and the Hub+ life
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about the new Galaxy Note 7 from Samsung. In addition, we speak about how BlackBerry is offering its Hub technology to Android 6.0 users, which could be the company setting itself up for a life beyond hardware. We also venture into a discussion about the recent $1.3 billion suit against the Canadian Government by former Wind Mobile owner. Oh and we briefly talk eye styes. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy Duration: 46:03 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/5/2016 • 49 minutes, 35 seconds
SyrupCast 80: DTEK50's enterprise focus and tech giant earnings
On this episode of the SyrupCast we talk about the new BlackBerry DTEK50, earnings of Apple, Microsoft, Twitter and Alphabet. In addition, we dig down deep about the future of media with bots and front-facing cameras. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy Duration: 46:03 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/29/2016 • 46 minutes, 2 seconds
SyrupCast 79: Robot vacuum wars and the future of TV
On this episode of the SyrupCast, we talk nothing about Pokemon Go but dive deep into the future of TV in Canada and also venture down the path of living with robots, specifically robot vacuums. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Matthew Moniz, Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy Duration: 40:55 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/22/2016 • 40 minutes, 55 seconds
SyrupCast 78: The Next Big thing in devices, roaming and MVNO's
On this special episode of the SyrupCast, we talk all about Pokemon Go – its history, community, and what it means for mobile gaming. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Matthew Moniz, Jessica Vomiero, Ian Hardy Duration: 35:51 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/15/2016 • 35 minutes, 54 seconds
SyrupCast 77.5: Mid-week Pokemon Go Podcast - What is Pokemon?
On this special episode of the SyrupCast, we talk all about Pokemon Go – its history, community, and what it means for mobile gaming. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, Ian Hardy Duration: 29:58 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/13/2016 • 30 minutes
SyrupCast 77: Pokemon Go in Canada and iOS 10 in action
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about all the glory of Pokemon Go in Canada, the public release of iOS 10 and a very sweaty HTC Vive experience. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Matthew Moniz, Jessica Vomiero and Rose Behar Duration: 38:06 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/8/2016 • 38 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast 76: BlackBerry's Chill and sub $500 smartphones
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about all drama surrounding Chill Mobile and the state of Canadian telecom. In addition, we spent some time talking about the new Moto G Plus, OnePlus 3, and App;e WWDC. Finally, BlackBerry announced its results and while they were not pretty, the company is continuing down the path of becoming a software machine. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Matthew Moniz, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar, and Ian Hardy Duration: 40:16 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/24/2016 • 40 minutes, 16 seconds
SyrupCast 75: Netflix frills and carrier spills
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about all the glory that came out of Apple's annual WWDC, including new features coming to macOS, WatchOS, iOS, and Message. In addition, we about the $26 billion acquisition of LinkedIN by Microsoft, and finally, the next flagship killer OnePlus 3 launch. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Matthew Moniz, Jessica Vomiero and Rose Behar. Duration: 41:16 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/17/2016 • 41 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast 74: I’m in love with Lenovo and making friends with AI
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about how Lenovo's new Motorola devices, the Moto Z and Moto Z Force. In addition, we speak about Apple's upcoming plans for WWDC 2016. We also venture down the road of Artificial Intelligence and how we can become friends with a robot. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar, and Ian Hardy Duration: 40 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/10/2016 • 41 minutes, 1 second
SyrupCast 73.5: Remaster E3
In this special episode of the SyrupCast, Patrick and Igor discuss the video game industry's biggest conference, E3. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic Duration: 31:56 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/3/2016 • 32 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast 73: Alexa’s coming to Canada
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about how Apple Pay is now available from all five major banks in Canada and its potential impact. In addition, Sony will be bringing a number of new smartphones to Canada this summer, specifically the Xperia X lineup. We also venture down the road of Pebble and how its tiny Core brings Canadians the Amazon Echo. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, and Rose Behar. Duration: 40:10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/3/2016 • 40 minutes, 10 seconds
SyrupCast 72: Pebble, Motorola, Microsoft, Bell… all killer no filler
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about Eastlink's expansion into Ontario, job cuts at Microsoft and BMO, and Pebble's next lineup of wearable and how it aims to secure its position in the market. In addition, we also discuss the new devices from Motorola and what to expect from Lenovo World in June. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar and Ian Hardy Duration: 50:13 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/27/2016 • 50 minutes, 13 seconds
SyrupCast 71: Daydreaming about an Amazon Echo and Google Home in my home
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about Google I/O, Allo and Duo apps and Daydream. In addition, we venture down the reality of Google Home and Amazon Echo battling it our for your living room. Finally, will Motorola bring back the RAZR? Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, Jessica Vomiero, Rose Behar and Matthew Moniz Duration: 37:08 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/20/2016 • 37 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast 70: Bell buys MTS and Apple Pay comes to Canada
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about the potential Apple Pay expanding its Canadian reach, Bell's possible acquisition of MTS and how the Competition Bureau is investigating, and the drama that is Mobilicity. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, JessicaVomiero, Ian Hardy and Matthew Moniz Duration: 42:45 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/13/2016 • 42 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast 69: MobileSyrup enters virtual reality to escape Canada’s new telecom reality
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about the potential Bell acquisition of MTS and how the carrier will transfer a third of it subs to Telus. In addition, we engage in a conversation of about HTC Vive and its experience in the growing virtual reality market. Finally, the team at MobileSyrup thanks the dedicated individuals to those who are helping out in Fort McMurray. Finally, the team at MobileSyrup is thinking about those impacted by the wildfires in Fort McMurray and thank everyone who has helped out. Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic, JessicaVomiero, Rose Behar and Matthew Moniz Duration: 41:23 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/6/2016 • 41 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast 68: Living with Android N and What is Unlimited?
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about how the new rate plans that dropped this week in Canada, specifically Rogers' sub-brand Chatr Wireless. In addition, we venture down the path of living with the next version of Android, which is currently called Android N.Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Matthew MonizDuration: 40 mins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/23/2016 • 34 minutes, 42 seconds
SyrupCast 67: BlackBerry, RCMP, and a future shaped by Canadians
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about how the HTC 10 and its entry into the Canadian smartphone market. In addition, we also go down the path of how the RCMP decrypted and gained access to BlackBerry's BBM messaging platform, then talk about the glory happening at Queen's University with ReFlex flexible device.Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ian HardyDuration: 38 mins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/15/2016 • 38 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast 66: The incentive enigma and swirling market winds
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about how the Canadian carriers incentive potential customer with various promotions -- such as Gear Vr and microSD cards. In addition, we also speak about rate plans, LG G5, BlackBerry and HTC upcoming flagship smartphone.Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Rose Behar, Ian HardyDuration: 40 mins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/9/2016 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
SyrupCast 65: BlackBerry's New Focus and Microsoft's Bot Life
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast, we talk about the downfall of BlackBerry and its new focus on IoT and security. In addition, we also converse about the life with Microsoft bots and how Canadians have complained less about wireless bills in Canada.Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Rose Behar, Ian HardyDuration: 40 mins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/2/2016 • 41 minutes, 47 seconds
SyrupCast 64: Apple revisits the past and looks to the future
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we speak about everything VR and AR, including HoloLens, Playstation VR, and Gear VR. In addition, Windows Mobile 10 and smartphone saturation in Canada.Hosts: Patrick O'Rourke, Igor Bonifacic and Ian HardyDuration: 24:05 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/25/2016 • 24 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast 63: The promise of VR and the Canadian carrier conundrum
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we speak about everything VR and AR, including HoloLens, Playstation VR, and Gear VR. In addition, Windows Mobile 10 and smartphone saturation in Canada.Hosts: Igor Bonifacic and Ian HardyDuration: 44:40 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/19/2016 • 44 minutes, 42 seconds
SyrupCast 62: The future with Android N and Apple's next play
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we speak about Samsung's latest flagship smartphone, Apple's upcoming Media event on March 21st, and Google next version of Android, currently known as Android N.Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Ian HardyDuration: 33 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/11/2016 • 34 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast 61: I choose you Pepper and rate plan saltiness
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we speak about the changing landscape of wireless in Canada, monthly rate plans, VR and the possibility of living with robots.Show Notes:TD payment app, along with Samsung Pay, Suretap http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/03/td-canada-trust-adds-visa-mobile-payments-to-its-app/ Wind Mobile/Shaw:http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/01/wind-mobile-is-now-officially-owned-by-shaw/ Pepper: http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/02/pepper-the-robot-moves-like-jagger-and-has-dreams-of-changing-retail/ Wind Mobile plans:http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/01/wind-mobile-restructuring-windtab-on-march-22/ Virgin Mobile Plans:http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/03/virgin-mobile-launches-two-new-byop-plans/ Mobilicity:http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/01/mobilicity-revamps-monthly-rate-plans-limits-data-speeds-and-reduces-roaming-allotment/ Bell: http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/02/29/bell-plans-to-launch-wireless-rate-plan-for-those-deaf-or-hard-of-hearing/ Telus:http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/03/01/telus-2-per-month-data-block-feature-with-enhanced-capabilities-march-3/ Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke, and Ian HardyDuration: 42 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/4/2016 • 43 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast 60: Mobile World Congress Meltdown
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we speak about everything that happened at MWC. Lots of news about the latest devices from Samsung and LG, plus HTC's upcoming Vive VR headset. Hosts: Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'Rourke Duration: 44 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/26/2016 • 44 minutes, 58 seconds
SyrupCast 59: Mobile World Congress and Apple's Privacy Push
On this week's episode of the SyrupCast we skip right over Ep. 58 and head to Barcelona for MWC. We also have a discussion about Apple's privacy push and one Telus exec who departed to help run Apple Canada. Hosts: an Hardy, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'RourkeDuration: 42 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/19/2016 • 42 minutes, 16 seconds
SyrupCast 57: All Together Now
This, it's all hands on deck for a discussion about Uber, BlackBerry, Wind Mobile, and the tech that will inevitably be unveiled at Mobile World Congress this month.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Ian Hardy, Igor Bonifacic, Patrick O'RourkeDuration: 45 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/9/2016 • 44 minutes, 57 seconds
56, Part B: Taylor Martin - Coffee and Tech
In Part 2 of this week's SyrupCast, Daniel and special guest, Taylor Martin, delve into the weeds of specialty coffee, brewing methods, and how to stay productive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/22/2016 • 49 minutes, 18 seconds
56, Part A: Michael Fisher - CES Recap, VR, and How To Be a Tech Writer
This week's SyrupCast is a doozy. A two-parter, the first part features Pocketnow's Michael Fisher, aka The Voice, for an hour of riffing on tech, tech reporting, and how to keep sane at CES.Also stick around for Part B with Best Damn Coffee's Taylor Martin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/22/2016 • 45 minutes, 27 seconds
SyrupCast 55: Oculus Drift
This week on SyrupCast, Daniel is joined by Patrick O'Rourke and Matthew Moniz to talk about the future of VR and how it will shape the gaming, entertainment and content development spaces.Show notes:Apple releases a battery case for its iPhone 6 and 6sWind Mobile gets a big cash injection to fund its LTE networkBlackBerry Priv reviewHTC Vive will be released in April 2016Oculus reveals consumer design for Rift VR headset, will ship with Xbox One controllerHow Google’s Cardboard VR headset paves the way for the future of gamingSamsung Gear VR Consumer Edition now available at Best BuyTête-à-Tête: HTC Vive vs. PlayStation VR – Which VR headset is more impressive?Duration: 1hr 18minHosts: Daniel Bader, Patrick O'RourkeSpecial Guest: Matthew Moniz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/12/2015 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast 54: Drake's Privilege
On this week's SyrupCast, Daniel and Douglas are back to talk about what's been happening in the world of technology.They talk about the BlackBerry Priv (obviously) and whether it can stand up to what Daniel thinks is the best Android phone out there, the Nexus 6P.Then they talk about Apple's latest gear, the iPad Pro and the Apple TV, and where the company could have improved things in the rollout.Finally, they talk about the ever-changing world of content, and whether physical media have a place in the digital age.Running time: 1hr 20minHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/27/2015 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 34 seconds
The Review: Sony Xperia Z5
In this episode of The Review, Daniel tackles the Sony Xperia Z5 which, despite having a lot going for it, is overshadowed by many other devices on the market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/20/2015 • 16 minutes, 9 seconds
The Review: BlackBerry Priv
In this episode of The Review, Daniel goes back to the very beginning of his tech obsession with the BlackBerry Pearl and original Bold. He then talks about the BlackBerry Priv, a great Android smartphone that may be too little, too late. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/9/2015 • 22 minutes, 13 seconds
The Review: Nexus 6P
In the second episode of The Review, Daniel talks about the fantastic Nexus 6P -- probably the best all-round Android phone to date -- and how Google needs to do a lot more to get the Nexus name out into the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/4/2015 • 24 minutes, 20 seconds
The Review: HTC One A9
In this inaugural episode of The Review, Daniel dives into the HTC One A9, and reflects on why it is such a confusing value proposition for most people.While The Review will live in SyrupCast's feed for now, it may eventually strike out on its own. If you enjoy this kind of content and want to see more of it, please leave your own review on iTunes, or let us know in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/30/2015 • 15 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast 53: Podtoberfest
SyrupCast is back after a month-long hiatus, during which Daniel got married, Douglas got bed head, and a bunch of companies released a bunch of devices.Join Daniel and Douglas as they talk about the iPhone 6s's 3D Touch feature, the new Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P, Microsoft's bevy of hardware, and the BlackBerry Priv.Show NotesiPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus reviewNexus 6P Hands-onNexus 5X Hands-onMicrosoft Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL hands-onNo Canadian carriers will sell the Microsoft Lumia 950 or Lumia 950 XLHands-on with Microsoft’s slightly improved Surface Pro 4Hands-on with Microsoft’s impressive but expensive Surface BookRetailer lists BlackBerry Priv specs and release date in new hands-on videoHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 28 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/16/2015 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 45 seconds
SyrupCast 52: Honeycrisp Apple
This week, Daniel and Douglas break down the highs and lows of the recent Apple event. The iPhone 6s looks like a big upgrade, but a 16GB base model is making a lot of people upset.Why would someone want an iPad Pro? We dig into the possibilities.And the Apple TV? Disruptor or me-too? Apple's plan for the future of television.Show notesHands-on with the faster, stronger, pricier iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s PlusHands-on with the massive iPad ProApple shows off upgraded Apple TV with new user interface, Siri integration and a focus on gamingHands-on: New gold and rose gold Apple Watch cases add more personalization to Apple’s wearableHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 16min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/14/2015 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast 51: From Good to Great
This week, Daniel and Douglas get into it about BlackBerry's acquisition of rival Good Technology. Is John Chen in it for himself, or does he have the best interests of BlackBerry in mind?And it's IFA, so bring on the smartwatches, smartphones and other mobile detritus. How does the new Moto 360 compare to the Samsung Gear S2, Huawei Watch and the Apple Watch?Finally, Rogers just unveiled its Share Everything+ plans: are they good for the industry, or just widening the gulf between good service and mediocre?Show NotesBlackBerry acquires competitor Good Technology for $425 million in cashHands-on with the new Moto 360: Choice mattersSamsung announces Gear S2 smartwatch in two versions , coming to Canada in OctoberApple Watch reviewRogers announces Share Everything+ plan strategy to push further into premium experiencesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 29min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/4/2015 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 31 seconds
SyrupCast 50: The Wind-Up Carrier Chronicle
This week, Douglas and Daniel stay firmly in the warm confines of Canadian telcos with an exploration of what's happening at Videotron and Wind Mobile. With Videotron launching a new policy that exempts some streaming music services from counting towards its customers monthly bandwidth, will customers come in droves? Or will the CRTC pounce at the opportunity to ban the process of zero-rating in yet another instance?And Wind Mobile has reduced its subsidy from $150 to $100 in response to the popularity of Bring Your Own Device? Confusing as it might be, the move points to a decision by Wind to pass along the actual cost of devices to its consumers rather than increasing monthly plan prices.It's a great show with some excellent debate, so tune in!Show notesVideotron launches Unlimited Music streaming that doesn’t count towards data capsWind Mobile responds to bring-your-own-device popularity with reduction in WindTab subsidyWind takes on Rogers, Bell and Telus with new data sharing optionThis is how Rogers will deal with Mobilicity’s leftover customersGrowing pains: Why I joined, and left, Wind MobileHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 6min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/27/2015 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 43 seconds
SyrupCast 49: Alphabet City and Smartphone Islands
This week, Daniel and Douglas talk about the big topic they missed last week: Alphabet. What spurred the move, and will it make Google a better-run company? And why did Google decide to start making routers, anyway?Also on the show, Star Trek vs. Star Wars vs. Ignorance, and the launch of the Many Smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy Note 5, the Galaxy S6 edge+, the Moto X Play, and the OnePlus 2. Which one would you take to a deserted island for a month (along with your one significant other)?Show notes:Google is now AlphabetAndroid M is Marshmallow, coming soon as Android 6.0The OnePlus 2 is great, but it's also flawedSamsung's two latest smartphones are now in Canada -- are you buying?The Galaxy S6 edge+ is a really bad nameShomi is now available to all CanadiansRogers and Fido to launch WiFi calling with iOS 9The Moto X Play is really goodKik is now valued at $1 billion after $50 investment from WeChat owner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/21/2015 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast 48: Galaxy Notes and Summer Doldrums
SyrupCast is back! This week, Daniel and Douglas chat about the new Galaxy Note phones, Motorola's strategy, the OnePlus 2, BlackBerry's Security Summit, and we answer your questions!Show notes:Is the Samsung Galaxy Note 5 worth your time?Motorola's mid-range Moto X is really just a big Moto GThe OnePlus 2 is actually a really good phone, despite the marketing hypeIs BlackBerry a Canadian company anymore? The answer will surprise youHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysRunning time: 1 hr 10 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/14/2015 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 44 seconds
SyrupCast 47: Nexus Solar Plexus
This week, Daniel and Douglas chat about Android's Nexus line, and how Google can get its groove back. We're hearing that Huawei is going to be the company creating (one of) this year's Nexus device(s), but can the Chinese OEM, known mainly outside North America, step up and deliver a great stock Android experience alongside Google?And what about BlackBerry? Now that it has teamed up with Google in the enterprise, is the prospect of a Waterloo-made Android device more or less likely? We delve deep into this one.Also:Is the Galaxy Note 5 coming a month earlier this year?How is Apple's iOS 9 public beta?What has Google changed in the latest Android M Developer Preview?And what's this new T-Mobile roaming plan that has everyone talking?That and lots more this week on SyrupCast!Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1 hr 21 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/12/2015 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast 46: Roaming with Amir Johnson
This week, Daniel and Douglas explore the many ways that Canadians roam. Rogers' Roam Like Home makes it very easy to roam in the U.S. and Europe, but is it actually a good deal?Also on the ticket is Sony's renewed investment in camera sensors, and whether Apple Music is worth the investment.LinksExploring roam choices for CanadiansRogers brings Roam Like Home to EuropeSony investing $4 billion in new camera sensor manufacturingApple Music is here, but is it any good?Hosts: Douglas Soltys, Daniel BaderDuration: 1 hr 11 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/2/2015 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 12 seconds
SyrupCast 45: Three's Company
This week, Daniel and Douglas are joined by telecom expert and friend of the show, Ben Klass, who guides us through the muddy waters of the recently Rogers-Mobilicity-Wind Mobile deal.There's a lot of stuff packed in here, but they also had time to chat a bit about RootMetrics' report on network speeds in Vancouver; MTS's new Total Internet plan; and BlackBerry's expansion into Internet of Health Things (IoHT).Links:Wind Mobile moves to a position of strength after Rogers-Mobilicity dealTelus and Bell rated most reliable networks in VancouverBlackBerry's IoHT strategy takes shape with new partnershipBlackBerry's Q1 2016 numbers disappointMTS unveils new Total Internet Plan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/26/2015 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast 44: That's what people say
This week on SyrupCast, Daniel and Douglas talk about the new Wall Report and how Canadians are spending more on wireless this year than in 2015.Also discussed:The FTC's $100 million lawsuit against AT&T for illegal throttling of unlimited data plansWhat happens to Stephen Elop, and Microsoft, now that he's out of Satya Nadella's life?Why BlackBerry building an Android phone is a really bad idea – or is it?How does the Pebble Time stand up to initial scrutiny?And will Apple Music really make a difference to the streaming music market? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/19/2015 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 8 seconds
SyrupCast 43: A Clean Start
This week, Douglas and Daniel go into Google I/O Rundown, talking about Google's strengths in machine learning and internet services. But do Google's smarts justify the rather creepy nature of its intelligence, especially when it comes to things like your photos?And what's next for Apple, which is under pressure to deliver a similarly impressive software update at WWDC.Links: Now on Tap, Android Wear and how Google knows your futureLollipop is now on 12.4% of Android devicesWhat’s new in Android MGoogle Photos - is it good or creepy?Apple is reportedly developing its own Google Now-like service for iOSWireless Code of Conduct now applies to all Canadians Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/7/2015 • 56 minutes, 15 seconds
SyrupCast 42: The Double Cohort
This week, Douglas is back! What, you want more? Fine: we also have a great conversation.The topics this week include the end of three-year contracts and the so-called Double Cohort, which will allow millions of Canadians to leave their contracts on June 3rd without paying a dime.Also on the cards are the rise of unlocked phones, and they relate to the relative value of phone contracts; as subsidies decrease, customers are more aware of the often high cost of their smartphones. Low-cost, unlocked phones are changing the way Canadians buy cellphones.And because it is developer conference season, we chat about the upcoming Google I/O and WWDC sessions, and what's in store for iOS 9 and Android M. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/24/2015 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 35 seconds
SyrupCast 41: Promises of G4-reatness
This week, Daniel and special guest Matthew Moniz discuss the LG G4 and how it compares to the latest flagships from Samsung, the Galaxy S6 and Note 4.They talk about the state of wearables, and how Android Wear is doing in relation to the Apple Watch and Pebble, which is coming out with its own refresh, Pebble Time, in the next couple of weeks.Finally, they discuss Microsoft Build and how far the company has come since Windows 8. But will Windows 10 really have the results Microsoft is looking for?Hosts: Daniel Bader, Matthew MonizDuration: 1hr 16min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2015 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 13 seconds
SyrupCast 40: Apple Watch Launch Recap, ft. Eric Leamen
This week, new MobileSyrup contributor, Eric Leamen, joins me for a fantastic conversation about the Apple Watch, including our first impressions of the wearable; Apple's recent Q2 earnings; how carriers are adjusting to the higher cost of iPhones; my first impressions of the LG G4; and whether the Galaxy S6 and LG G4 beat the iPhone 6 in camera performance.It's a really fun podcast, and you should listen to it all the way through.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Eric LeamenRuntime: 1hr 28 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/3/2015 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 3 seconds
SyrupCast 39: We The North (Want Google Fi)
This week, Daniel and Douglas dig deep into wearables, specifically focusing on the app potential of the Apple Watch and the upcoming Android Wear update.Also discussed is the tenuous relationship between HBO, VPNs and #takemymoney wannabees: does Bell's relationship with HBO prevent a service like HBO Now from ever coming to Canada?Facebook just announced it has reached nearly 1.5 billion monthly users across its core network, but its chat entities, Messenger and WhatsApp, combine for nearly that number of users. Where does Facebook go from here, now that its mobile transformation is well underway?The Xperia Z3 Compact is a great smartphone – we just reviewed it – but are small phones really worth getting worked up about? Are any phones really worth getting worked up about anymore? Daniel and Douglas explore that point through the lens of the recently-updated HTC One M9.We're in person this week, and there's laughter, beer, and a little bit of swearing.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 53 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/24/2015 • 53 minutes, 40 seconds
SyrupCast 38: The Problem With Androids
This week on the SyrupCast, we chat about the LG G4 and the problems facing any Android company that isn't Samsung.Plus, the release of the HTC One M9 and Samsung Galaxy S6; the return of the OnePlus One to Canada; Bell's privacy snafu; the 2,500Mhz spectrum auction, and lots more!Hosts: Douglas Soltys, Daniel BaderRuntime: 1hr 17 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/17/2015 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 52 seconds
SyrupCast 37: Still Crazy After All These Years
We're still here!This week, Douglas and Daniel chat about the closure of Future Shop; the slow introduction of VoLTE; Koodo's and Fido's new colour palettes; how a $350 iPhone 6 will affect sales of it and the Galaxy S6; and lots more!Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 10min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/6/2015 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 53 seconds
SyrupCast 36: Good Night, and Good Luck.
This week, we talk about a great many things, since variety is the spice of good podcasts.First, we tackle the upcoming Fido rebranding, which most people don't seem to like. Maybe they'll use our readers as an informal focus group.Then, we talk about Windows 10's summer release, and how Cortana's move to iOS and Android is as inspired a move as we've seen from the company in some time.We spent a bit of time talking about the Neptune Duo Suite, a new project from Canadian wearables company, Neptune. It has the potential for greatness, but is its ambition going to be its downfall?LG looks to be once again working with Google on an upcoming Nexus smartphone, which hopefully returns to reasonable proportions. In the meantime, though, the Nexus 6 appears to be greatly benefitting from Android 5.1.And finally, we share some sad news with the listeners. It's not fair to tease, I know, but this one's worth sticking around for.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegart, Douglas SoltysDuration: 1hr 28 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/20/2015 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 57 seconds
SyrupCast 35: Apple Watch Price Pout
This week, wearables expert, Tom Emrich, joins Daniel, Jane and Douglas to talk about, what else, the Apple Watch.Who is it for? And why is everyone hung up on the Apple Watch Edition, which starts at $13,000 CDN. Tom says it's mostly a marketing tool, a way for Apple to penetrate the lucrative marketing mechanism of the high-end Swiss watch market. And when it's all said and done, Apple's presence in the market will actually boost smartwatch sales overall, as they did with smartphones and tablets.Also talked about is the CRTC's decision to regulate on-demand streaming services like Shomi and CraveTV. What are the consequences of the CRTC's decision? Will everyday Debbie be subscribing to CraveTV in the near future on a TekSavvy internet connection? Listen and find out!Hosts: Daniel Bader (@journeydan), Jane McEntegart (@janemcentegart), Douglas Soltys (@tron)Guest: Tom Emrich (@tomemrich)Duration: 1 hr 9m Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/13/2015 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 27 seconds
SyrupCast 34: Mobile World Coffee Pods
This week, Jane and Daniel recount the many ways Mobile World Congress and Barcelona nearly killed him.They discuss the new devices announced at the event, including the HTC One M9 and both Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, each of which reveals pros and cons in their companies' respective strategies.They talk about the new Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3, and whether it has a chance in the saturated mid-range market; and how Nokia, the once-king of Symbian and Windows Phone, plans to make its comeback through... Android tablets?The Apple Watch is launching next week, and we're going to be in San Francisco to cover all the mayhem. How much will it cost? What will its unannounced features be? And why the hell is everyone talking about Taptic Feedback?Finally, they chat about the newly-concluded AWS-3 spectrum auction, which saw WIND Mobile walk away with more valuable spectrum than anyone else.All that, and lots of Jamón ibérico, on this week's SyrupCast.This week's SyrupCast is brought to you by Shop MobileSyrup. Pick up whatever you need, from cases to spare batteries. Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegartDuration: 1 hr 22 minutesLike our little podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or wherever you download it. We really appreciate it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/6/2015 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 6 seconds
SyrupCast 33: Self-driving podcast
This week, Daniel, Jane and special guest and regular MobileSyrup contributor go all-in on automotive.We discuss the current state of the in-car dash -- it's a sorry state, according to Mr. Kritsonis -- and fall down the rabbit hole of automotive tech.Will the major automakers be able to keep up with the quickly-changing face of mobile technology, or will Google and Apple force them to become more cooperative, not only within their own organizations but externally?And finally, will Apple develop a car? Ted doesn't think so despite new reports that they are planning to release an electric vehicle in 2020.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegartGuest: Ted KritsonisDuration: 56 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/20/2015 • 56 minutes, 7 seconds
SyrupCast 32: I experimented with different platforms in college
This week, it's all hardware. (Finally, they scream!)As Mobile World Congress approaches, Jane, Douglas and Daniel chat about the upcoming hardware we can expect from the show, including the Samsung Galaxy S6, the HTC One M9, and much more.We also talk about Jane's Nexus 6, two months on take, which left commenters with a lot to say.Finally, Windows 10 Technical Preview for Phones just got released, and while it's not finished, we chat about whether Microsoft got it right.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegart, Douglas SoltysRun time: 53 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/13/2015 • 52 minutes, 26 seconds
SyrupCast 31: Editorial Control
This week, special guest Ben Klass talks about his complaint filed to the CRTC back in 2013, and the regulatory body's decision to force Bell and Videotron to change the way they bill customers for mobile TV access.We also talk about the role of regulation within Canada's telecom system as a whole, and how the changing viewing habits of Canadians will be impacted by monthly bandwidth limitations.Finally, we touch on TELUS's rebranding of Public Mobile, and whether it's possible to get by with a data-only LTE plan.It's a bit regulatory-heavy again (sorry for those wanting phone talk, it will be back next week!) but it's a really interesting conversation with a really smart guy.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysGuest: Ben KlassRuntime: 1 hr 3 min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/6/2015 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast 30: Hello, is it LTE you're looking for?
This week, we chat about Net Neutrality, and how Bell and Videotron (and others) can no longer exempt the traffic from their mobile TV apps. Did the CRTC make the right decision? We get into it.We chat about WIND Mobile's commitment to bid in the AWS-3 and 2500Mhz spectrum auctions in March and April respectively; Rogers and its quest for value, not volume; Apple's massive Q1 earnings; and whether Samsung's Galaxy Note Edge is just a little too weird for most people.This week's SyrupCast is brought to you by Shop MobileSyrup. Pick up whatever you need, from cases to spare batteries. Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegartDuration: 1 hr 12 minutesLike our little podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or wherever you download it. We really appreciate it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/30/2015 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 33 seconds
SyrupCast 29: Holograms, Holograms, Holograms!
This week, we talk about Microsoft's new moonshot, its augmented reality wearable, HoloLens, and lots of Windows 10 stuff. Can it fix the company's epic fragmentation issues?We talk about John Chen's letter about net neutrality and how Apple should be forced to make iMessage for Android (or something). Is he crazy, or does he have a point?Then we delve into the new HTC One device, and what it needs to be successful. I think it needs a better camera, but everyone else has opinions. What's yours?Also: Motorola's epic Lollipop rollout mess up; the Samsung Galaxy S6; and Kyle Lowry, who was selected to start at point guard for the Eastern Conference All-Star team on February 5th.We're almost 30, but until then -- Holograms, Holograms, Holograms!Duration: 84 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, and Jane McEntegart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/23/2015 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 14 seconds
SyrupCast 28: The CESPool Strikes Back
This week, Jane and Daniel recount all the CES 2015 trials, tribulations, winners and losers.Specifically, a great deal of time is spent figuring out whether the LG G Flex 2 is just another gimmick or if it has the legs (and the curve) to go mainstream.Also, YotaPhone 2, all the terrible smartwatches, and Attack of the Drones.Duration: 81 minutesHosts: Jane McEntegart, Daniel Bader Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/14/2015 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 36 seconds
SyrupCast 27: Auld Lang Synecast
On this, the last podcast of the year, we talk about the stories that made the year so interesting... and controversial.From the rise of wearables to the death of security, 2014 was a year to remember.Happy new year!Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegartDuration: 90 short minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/31/2014 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 28 seconds
SyrupCast 26: InfoSec Taylor Swift
On SyrupCast 26, we enjoy the company of our first guest, freelance writer, security analyst, .Digest curator and all-round awesome guy, Matthew Braga.Topics discussed in this security-focused episode:How important is by-default smartphone encryption? [external link]Is BlackBerry still more secure than the competition? What's changed?OpenGarden raises $10.8 million to grow its peer-to-peer chat service, FireChat. Is it the next big thing? [external link]Federal Court orders Apple to hand over documents to Competition Bureau in iPhone investigationWIND Mobile on 2015 spectrum auction: It would be really hard to mess this upIt's an awesome episode, and we highly recommend listening to it the whole way through.Participants: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegart, Matthew BragaDuration: 85 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/19/2014 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 48 seconds
SyrupCast 25: No one puts BlackBerry in a corner
This week, the BlackBerry Classic is on its way, and we're curious about why everyone is so interested in it. Is it mainly the nostalgia factor -- and the Classic name itself -- or is something else afoot here? Will the Classic manage to find success where the Q10 didn't?We talk Android Wear 5.0 and the official Watch Face API: is this the update the smartwatch platform needs to go mainstream? Ustwo, the creator of best-mobile-game Monument Valley, is also creating watch faces for Android Wear. Sony's SmartWatch 3 is also discussed, as it is now available in Canada for $280. Is it too expensive?Android 5.0.1 running on the HTC One M8 Google Play Edition is the best Android experience out right now, but others are likely not far behind.We talk about the world's biggest sunglass manufacturer, Luxottica, partnering with Intel on a wearables platform, and how that will impact the next-generation Google Glass, which is reportedly going to run an Intel chip.Then, discussion of the Supreme Court's decision to allow warrantless phone searches upon arrest, and Canada's Privacy Commissioner urges platform owners like Google and Apple to make privacy policies mandatory.Finally, is Windows Phone dead? One of its biggest supporters appears to think so.A note on our podcast this week. Due to some audio problems, we were forced to use the feed from our Google Hangouts session, which is not quite as clear as our regular stream. Rest assured this is only temporary and next week we will be back to normal. Thanks for your understanding!Hosts: Jane McEntegart, Douglas Soltys, Daniel BaderDuration: 1hr 19min Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/12/2014 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 4 seconds
SyrupCast 24: The CESpool
News is thin this week, but it doesn't stop us from chatting up a winter storm. Timestamps:[Start - 13:05] YotaPhone 2 is one of the most interesting phones of the year, and a good representative of hardware innovation at a time when smartphones are becoming increasingly commoditized.[13:05 - 24:00 ] The Galaxy Note Edge, Sonim XP7 and other devices are also really fascinating in their own ways, and prove that there is a market for more niche products, however expensive they may be.[24:00 - 29:00] Xiaomi may be releasing its first North American-bound phone at CES this year, but is North America ready for China's rising star?[29:00 - 37:00] Lenovo's new Yoga Tablet 2 Pro is a beast of a machine, but shows how far the manufacturer has come in such a short time. We're reviewing the AshTab right now -- does it hold up in testing?[37:00 - 42:00] Android 5.0.1 is slowly rolling out to select Nexus devices. Why can't we have nice things, NOW?![42:00 - 55:00] CES is quickly approaching. We're gearing up to take it on, but there's a method to our madness, and it involves Snapchat.[55:00 - end] Something something Microsoft. Something something Office 365.Hosts: Jane McEntegart, Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysDuration: 67 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/5/2014 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 25 seconds
SyrupCast 23: The Dread Pirate Podcast
This week, how the mobile gaming market has been undone by piracy, freemium and consumer entitlement to digital content. Is there a road back from this mess?There's talk of our recently-launched Smartphone Gift Guide and the best Black Friday deals around.And, of course, the new Star Wars trailer... because we're geeks, too.Finally, user feedback: what do you want to hear on the podcast? Leave your questions in the comments and we'll try to get to them next week. And, if you like the show, please leave us a comment and a rating wherever you downloaded it.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegartDuration: 71 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/28/2014 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 19 seconds
SyrupCast 22: Wearing your heart rate on your sleeve
This week, TELUS's new Your Choice plans are discussed and dissected: why the change, and are there any consumer advantages?Plus, Samsung's Gear S smartwatch, and whether Canadians -- consumers and carriers -- are ready for cellular-connected wearables. Apple Watch and its new WatchKit developer tools mean great things for iPhone users, but did Cupertino stay too conservative with its 1.0 release?Finally, the Nexus 6 went up for pre-order this week, but did anyone actually manage to by one? And what do you guys think of Lollipop? We held a poll, and the response were quite enlightening.Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegartRunning time: 72 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/21/2014 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast 21: Chairman Handsome
On SyrupCast 21, we talk about the Nexus 6, referencing our review and our first impressions of Android 5.0 Lollipop -- is it all it's cracked up to be?We also discuss the Sony Xperia Z3 and its Compact counterpart, and whether a resurgent demand for "small" phones is inevitable. (The answer, I believe, is yes. The review's coming next week, so be patient.)Then we delve into BlackBerry -- dry, I know, but bear with us -- and its enterprise aspirations. BES 12, BBM Meetings and more all sound boring on paper, but it's the best position the company's been in years. We also discuss the Canadian company's partnership with Samsung, which just held its own developer conference this week and announced a bevy of interesting -- and less interesting -- products and services.We reference Microsoft's first official Lumia device branded under its own name; WIND's continued talks with Videotron; and, of course, Taylor Swift's rift with Spotify.This is SyrupCast. Thanks for listening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/15/2014 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 31 seconds
SyrupCast 20: How To Lose a Billion in Ten Months
We chat about Rogers' new Roam Like Home deal and how it compares to KnowRoaming and Roam Mobility.There's a big discussion about the Nexus 9 and the iPad mini 3, and how they compare as productivity devices -- which one do you think wins the argument?We talk a lot about security and the NSA, a little about the state of mid-range Android devices, and there's a long discussion on whether Microsoft still has its head in the game when it comes to Windows Phone.It's a long one, but this SyrupCast is worth listening to until the end.Running time: 108 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegart, Douglas Soltys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/8/2014 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 6 seconds
SyrupCast 19: Halloween Podcat
It was the rainy day of Hallowe'enWhen Daniel slipped and broke his screenJane called him a jerkDoug started to twerkAnd the podcat went PG-13. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/31/2014 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 18 seconds
SyrupCast 18: That'll Cost Extra
This week, Jane, Daniel and Douglas chat about the growing market for wearables, and whether companies like Pebble, Fitbit and Jawbone have a place in the hardware space. There's also talk about Bell's complaint to the CRTC about Rogers' NHL GamePlus exclusivity, and a discussion on whether smartphone reviews are doing anyone any good. Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegart, Douglas Soltys Running Time: 74 Minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/24/2014 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 5 seconds
SyrupCast 17: Pop Pop Lollipop!
This week, Jane and Daniel take a bite out of Lollipop, and chat about the Nexus 6, Nexus 9 and Apple's new iPads. Featured Stories Nexus 6 announced Nexus 9 announced iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 announced Rogers Next is being discontinued Apps of the week Daniel: Rdio (iOS, Android) Jane: Android Lollipop Flappy Bird easter egg --- Hosts: Jane McEntegart, Daniel Bader Running Time: 69 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/18/2014 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 16: Pre-Thanksgiving Coma
This week, Jane and Daniel chat about the CRTC, Mobilicity (for real this time!), HTC's new RE Camera, the Desire Eye, Nokia's Lumia 830, Spotify, Nexus and iPad. It's Thanksgiving, and we're already tired.Featured StoriesCRTC hearings on wholesale wireless regulationHTC RE Camera hands-onHTC Desire Eye hands-onSpotify wants to Canadify your musiciPad event announced for October 16thApps of the WeekDaniel: Snowball for AndroidJane: Clue Period Track (iOS, Android)Hosts: Jane McEntegart, Daniel BaderRunning Time: 51 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/11/2014 • 51 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 15: Absolutely Phabulous
This week, we talk about a big Nexus, a small Mobilicity, a CRTC controversy, and a bunch of new devices coming down the pipe this month. Plus, Spotify expands to all Canadians and our apps on the week.This is SyrupCast.Featured NewsNexus 6 rides the busiPhone 6 ReviewiPhone 6 Plus Hands-onApple to release new 9.7-inch iPad next month, available in goldSony bringing the Xperia Z3 to Rogers, Bell, TELUS, WIND Mobile, MTS and SaskTel on October 31stMoto X now available in Canada in black, bamboo coming October 31stNokia Lumia 830 coming October 8thMoto 360 users reporting improved battery life since last updateSamsung Galaxy Note 4 coming to Canada October 17thSpotify now available to all CanadiansApps of the weekDaniel: Circa 3.0 (Android / iOS)Jane: Beer?! (Android / iOS)Douglas: Pokemon TCG Online for iPadHosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntegart, Douglas Soltys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/2/2014 • 51 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 14: Passport to Jameson
This week, BlackBerry's on the mind (as is Irish whiskey), so we chat about both. How does the Passport hold up to scrutiny, and what does BlackBerry have planned for the fall? Spoiler: it's another handset.We also talk about Apple and the iPhone scandal de jour, and whether Samsung's acceleration of the Note 4's release is going to have an impact on sales.Finally, we speculate on a 6-inch Nexus, the rising costs of smartphone plans and the fastest mobile networks in Canada.Featured StoriesBlackBerry Passport & Co.ShopBlackBerry sells out of the Passport after first day of salesBlackBerry Passport reviewBlackBerry Blend available today for iOS and Android tablets, Windows and OS XTête-à-Tête: Is it hip to be square?BlackBerry Passport now available for $200 on contract, $699 unlockedBlackBerry Classic Q20 leaked on video, shows ‘belt’ row of function keysiPhone et alApple says only 9 customers have complained about bent iPhonesHere’s how to roll back to iOS 8 from iOS 8.0.1iPhone 6 tops 10 million units sold during first weekend of availabilitySamsung moves 500 software engineers from mobile division to ‘increase synergies for Tizen platform’Samsung accelerating launch of Note 4 in light of iPhone 6 Plus release Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/26/2014 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 53 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 13: So bias
Here we are, bringing you our thirteenth and best podcast to date. The days are getting shorter, but the number of smartphones being released is quickly ramping up.This week, we chat about the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, iOS 8 and what's next from Apple. We also delve into the rumoured demise of Android Silver, and what that means for the Nexus line.Then we move into WIND Mobile's fate now that the company's ownership has been sorted, and why that may put Videotron in a difficult position.And finally, we reminisce about old HTC tablets as we look forward to the company's rumoured Nexus 9, slated to be released in mid-October alongside Android L.Featured NewsSamsung Galaxy Note Edge will come to Canada in 2015Google’s rumoured Android Silver program might be dead in the wateriPhone 6 + iPhone 6 Plus launchiOS 8 reviewApple Pay potential in CanadaGlobalive Capital acquires WIND Mobile, carrier moves ‘into an exciting new phase’Videotron might have to buy Mobilicity nowRumour points to October 16th launch for Nexus 9Apps of the WeekDaniel: Starbucks for Android (free)Douglas: Checky for iOS and Android (free) Jane: Kitten Taxi for iOS and Android (free) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/19/2014 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 35 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 12: Reigning on Apple's parade
This week, we talk about the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, Apple's new payment system, and Watch, the first wearable from the world's biggest tech company.Running Time: 64 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegartNotes: We had some issues with the source recording from this episode, so you'll notice some parts of the recording are slightly sped up and contain crackling. Please power through these short sections, as they don't last long, and we'll make sure such a thing doesn't happen again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/12/2014 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 17 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 11: Smartphone Apoplexy
This week, we discuss all of the week's many smartphone, tablet and wearable announcements, including the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, Samsung Galaxy Note Edge, Sony Xperia Z3, Moto X (2014), Moto G (2014), the Moto 360, Asus ZenWatch and more.Featured StoriesHands-on with the new Moto XHands-on with the new Moto GHands-on with the retail Moto 360Live at Samsung’s Galaxy Note 4 launch in New York CityGalaxy Note 4 vs. Galaxy Note Edge: head-to-headSamsung Galaxy Note 4 hands-on (video)Samsung Galaxy Note Edge hands-on (video)Samsung partners with Oculus to turn a Note 4 into the Gear VRSamsung Canada says yes to Galaxy Note 4, maybe to Galaxy Note EdgeSony officially announces the Xperia Z3Sony follows Z3 announcement with unveiling of Z3 CompactSony announces Android Wear-powered SmartWatch 3Sony announces new Smartband Talk with e-ink displayAcer’s new Iconia tablet line includes Intel, Windows 8, and AndroidAsus ZenWatch packs Snapdragon 400, Android Wear, Remote Camera capabilities Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/4/2014 • 47 minutes, 44 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 10: Shomi the money
We made it to episode 10 of SyrupCast! Just wanted to say a big thanks to everyone who has listened, given us compliments and feedback, and content suggestions for future segments. We're listening. This week, as we get ready for the September onslaught, we dive into the idea that the next Nexus will be built by Motorola, and what it means for Lenovo's place in the Android ecosystem. Then there's the iPhone 6, which has been confirmed to launch on September 9th, Samsung and LG's new smartwatches -- which were announced last night at roughly the same time -- Rogers launching shomi, a Netflix competitor, and a new 30GB shared data plan. And finally, Cyanogen working on something really cool with former HTC, Motorola and Google execs. Next Nexus phone will be made by Motorola, likely named Nexus X iPhone 6 event announced for September 9th Samsung announces new curved smartwatch, Gear S LG announces circular smartwatch, G Watch R TELUS to launch the Samsung Galaxy S5 Active Cyanogen is working on “something really cool” with Nextbit Rogers and Shaw announce shomi, its $8.99/month Netflix competitor Rogers introduces 30GB shared data plan starting at $240/month App of the week: Hyperlapse by Instagram (iOS) Running time: 85 minutes Hosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/29/2014 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 19 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 9: Roaming like the wolf
This week, we talk about WIND Mobile's new lower roaming fees, Bell's tough time with the CRTC, Windows Phone 8.1 for the Lumia lineup, Thalmic's Myo teaming up with smart glasses, and a first peek at Telus's BlackBerry Passport.WIND Mobile launches new per-use roaming pricesWind Mobile celebrates back-to-school season with new Wind 35 planCRTC questioning Rogers/Bell/Videotron over Mobile TV practicesCourt to allow $100 million class action lawsuit against Bell’s prepaid policiesOttawa blocking spectrum sale to Rogers?Smartglasses get smarter with Myo gesture control armbandNokia Lumia 1020 receiving Cyan update in CanadaHTC One M8 for Windows announcedTELUS to release the BlackBerry Passport, here are some picturesBlackBerry Technology Solutions moves all the company's cool stuff under one roofRunning time: 75 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Jane McEntegart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/22/2014 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 56 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 8: Take my money
In this week's episode, we talk about the most interesting smartphones either on the market, or those coming soon. Specifically, Daniel, Doug, Ian and Jane chat about the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, the iPhone 6, the Moto X+1, the HTC W8 for Windows, Microsoft's upcoming 'selfie' phone, the Nexus 6 and, of course, the OnePlus One controversy.Galaxy Note 4 rumours -- potentially curved-edged display, 4GB RAM, UV sensoriPhone 6 rumours - bigger screen, faster chip, better camera. What else?Motorola launching Moto X+1, Moto G2, Moto 360 and more on September 4thNew Microsoft/Nokia devices coming at IFA -- Is PureView still relevant?HTC Windows Phone -- does it have a chance?OnePlus One -- is this device still relevant given all the bad press?Is OnePlus sexist or just plain stupid?Nexus 6 going to be a 5.9-inch 1080p device?Running time: 75 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas Soltys, Ian Hardy, Jane McEntegart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/15/2014 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 22 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 7: Canadian Bacon Capitalism
Welcome to another week of what is turning out to be a pretty entertaining summer in the smartphone industry. Last week, Rogers bore the brunt of the blame in what the CRTC calls 'unjust discriminination' against new entrants in regards to domestic roaming. The issue at hand is exclusivity: Rogers is accused of forcing new entrants like Wind, Mobilicity, Eastlink and others to sign exclusivity agreements for domestic roaming, preventing them from negotiating with other service providers and thus keeping prices high. While the CRTC has not yet made a decision on whether it will regulate the price of domestic roaming outside of preventing incumbents from charging new entrants more than they charge their customers, the move bodes well for companies looking to expand service at reasonable costs.We delve into that issue and more in Week 7. This is SyrupCast's Domestic Roaming-apalooza.Stories discussed:CRTC: Rogers engaged in ‘unjust discrimination’ against new entrantsVideotron will launch its LTE network ‘in the next few weeks’Bell to allow Manitoban customers to roam within province at no extra costEastlink signs ‘unique network partner’ to expand wireless coverageRoam Mobility launches new unlimited LTE plansCanadians travelling to the U.S. can now rent smartphones with unlimited data and callingRunning time: 62 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader & Douglas Soltys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/8/2014 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 38 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 6: Angel's in the details
This week, we contemplate the future of wireless in Canada. And what is wireless exactly? Less and less of our content is taking up by what we'd refer to as "traditional" mobile products. Instead, we fill the proverbial pages of our days with wearables like Thalmic's Myo gesture band, Oculus Rift's new virtual reality headset, Samsung's myriad smartwatches, and other gadgets that pair with our smartphones.And yet as we get further away from core mobile, we always end up back at the beginning: the smartphone really is the centre of our digital world, and increasingly at the expense of other products. In our Tête-à-Tête this week, Douglas and I talk about whether affordable phablets are going to be the death of the tablet as a category, or whether the two will merely morph into a single type of product. So, in our podcast this week, we talk about just that, the affordable phablet, and how companies like Alcatel OneTouch, Huawei, Oppo, OnePlus and others are meting swift blows on the traditional subsidized smartphone business model.And from there we talk about mobile plan pricing, because we've been dancing around the subject for weeks.NewsThalmic's final Myo designMobileSyrup's Myo Hands-on (video)BlackBerry Guardian malware scannerBlackBerry acquires Secusmart for anti-eavesdroppingAlcatel One Touch Idol 2S and Idol X+ coming to CanadaFeatureWe discuss the drastic changes in smartphone plan pricing since the implementation of the Wireless Code of Conduct, and what it means for the future of handsets in Canada.---Running time: 1 hour 9 minutesHosts: Douglas Soltys, Daniel Bader Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/1/2014 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 23 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 5: Culture Club Sandwich
This week on the SyrupCast, we're joined by new MobileSyrup member, Jane McEntagart, whose seven years of industry experience makes us look like a bunch of newbs.We dive into important mobile payment news from Visa, some unfortunate layoffs from Microsoft and Rogers, an important regulation that will affect both Google and Apple's app stores, and we'll delve into the Nvidia Shield Tablet, a brand new gaming-oriented Android tablet.Visa launches Visa Checkout - is it any good?Microsoft cutting 18,000 jobs, most of which are from NokiaRogers cutting several hundred jobs, many in the VP levelApple and IBM announce enterprise partnership - what does it mean for BlackBerry?Google will stop calling free-to-play games ‘free’ in the EU, but is it the right move?Nvidia Shield Tablet - does Android need a hardcore gaming tablet?App RoundupDaniel - Carousel by Dropbox (iPhone, Android)Douglas - Tinder (iPhone, Android) / Swarm (iPhone, Android)Jane - Android Wear Watchfaces (various apps)Hosts: Daniel Bader, Jane McEntagart, Douglas SoltysRunning Time: 84 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2014 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 4: Public Service Announcement
Welcome to episode 4 of SyrupCast, the best only Canadian mobile podcast on earth.This week, we delve into some of the more exciting elements of the Canadian regulatory system -- if the word 'exciting' can be used for such a thing -- with the newly-announced AWS-3 auction early next year. We also get into some first impressions of the LG G3, which will be coming to Canada on August 1st, and touch on Spotify, which looks to be launching shortly in Canada. We wax prolific on the sorry state of kids these days, and, as usual, talk about BlackBerry. And finally, we've launched our first podcast-specific feature, the weekly App Roundup, where Douglas and Daniel convince you to waste your time in productive ways.Running time: 72 minutesHosts: Daniel Bader, Douglas SoltysReleased: July 11th, 2014 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/11/2014 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 46 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 3: Canada Day Google I/O Spectacular
This week, we talk about Android, Android and more Android. Oh, and BlackBerry. And LG. And Bell.Google I/O just ended, but that doesn't mean we have to finish talking about the many Android-related announcements made during the two-day developer conference.Daniel Bader and Douglas Soltys dive into Android L and its new Material Design language, Android One, Android TV, Android Auto and Android Wear.Will Material Design help end Android fragmentation?What is Android One, and is it Google's preamble to Android Silver?How good is Android TV? And what about Android Auto?We delve into Android Wear and its newest cohorts, the LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live. Our first impressions and a preview of the review.Will the Moto 360 be the best of the bunch? (We think so!)In Canadian news, Bell begins charging for SIM cards.We saw the first working video of the BlackBerry Passport -- how does it look?With the LG G3 coming to Canada soon, how does it stack up to the current list of high-end Android devices?Running time: 62 minutes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/3/2014 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 18 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 2: Acquisitions Anonymous
In our second episode, we spend a little time talking about the Canadian wireless industry and, of course, a long time talking about BlackBerry. We also talk about Amazon's Fire Phone, Android Wear, and a lot of Google stuff leading up to Google I/O.Are WIND and Videotron going to team up to take over Canadian telco?How did BlackBerry fare during its close-to-profit quarter?Is the Amazon Fire Phone boom or bust?What's going on with Android Wear?Is Google really into hardware, or are they leaving it up to Nest?What can we expect from Google I/O this week?Running time: 70 minutes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/24/2014 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 2 seconds
SyrupCast Episode 1: Railing on everyone is a good place to start
This week, we look at a controversy within Rogers, a potential misstep by BlackBerry and a couple of gems by Motorola Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.